Iowa

The Hawkeye State’s Golden Roots

Iowa, the "Hawkeye State," has a subtle golden thread woven into its past—placer gold carried by glaciers from Canada, discovered in rivers like the Iowa and Des Moines since the 1850s. Though no major rush ensued, the 1853 Eldora gold find briefly drew thousands, hinting at Iowa’s hidden wealth. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this legacy, offering Iowans a modern link to their pioneering spirit and fertile lands. Why not let Iowa’s golden potential bloom anew?

Legislative Momentum: Iowa’s Golden Gateway

Iowa’s legislature is forging a path for gold transactions. In 2023, House File 208 (HF 208) proposed repealing capital gains taxes on gold and silver, passing the House but stalling in the Senate. As of February 2025, Senate File 543 (SF 543) has advanced through the Senate Ways and Means Committee on February 18, aiming to recognize gold as legal tender and exempt it from all state taxes—awaiting full Senate approval. These efforts build on Iowa’s sales tax exemptions for certain coins, making it Goldback-ready.

Economic Resilience and Hawkeye Pride

The Goldback fortifies Iowa’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s ideal for small buys—from Des Moines’s farmers’ markets to Cedar Rapids’ craft stalls. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, echoing Iowa’s steadfast farming roots. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the State Capitol, Grant Wood, or the Loess Hills. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money fans, enhancing local trade. This is Iowa’s golden harvest.

Iowa-Specific Goldback Designs

Here’s how Iowa’s Goldback denominations could honor its significant people and places:

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a prospector panning the Iowa River near Eldora, recalling the 1853 gold craze that briefly gripped Hardin County.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Grant Wood painting "American Gothic" in Eldon, honoring the artist who defined Iowa’s rural soul.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases the Iowa State Capitol’s golden dome in Des Moines, symbolizing the state’s governance legacy.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Herbert Hoover in West Branch, celebrating Iowa’s only U.S. president and humanitarian.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the Loess Hills at sunset, reflecting Iowa’s unique geological beauty and natural wealth.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Iowa’s history and landscapes, blending value with Hawkeye pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the Midwest

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Iowa can lead the Midwest. With SF 543 advancing, a history of grit, and a knack for innovation, Iowa is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the Senate to pass SF 543 and launch an Iowa Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Sioux City to Davenport—proving the Hawkeye State isn’t just corn country but a golden frontier. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Iowa golden.