Kansas

The Sunflower State’s Golden Potential

Kansas, the "Sunflower State," has a golden lure woven into its lore—from Francisco Coronado’s 1541 quest for Quivira’s fabled gold to whispers of buried treasure near the Little Arkansas River in the 1700s. While no major gold deposits were found, Kansas’s history of resilience—from surviving the Bleeding Kansas era to thriving as the nation’s breadbasket—makes it a natural fit for the Goldback, a voluntary, gold-based currency. In a state that’s fed the world, why not pioneer a new way to grow wealth with gold?

Legislative Momentum: Gold Transactions Unleashed

Kansas is charging toward a gold-friendly future. In 2019, the state repealed sales taxes on gold and silver via HB 2123, a big win for sound money. In 2024, House Bill 2729 and Senate Bill 513 proposed recognizing gold and silver specie as legal tender and establishing a state bullion depository—though stalled, they’ve set the stage. As of February 2025, Senate Bill 115 (SB 115), filed earlier this month, has passed the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee, authorizing a depository and state gold reserves, awaiting full Senate action. These moves make Kansas a Goldback hotspot, ready for everyday gold use.

Economic Strength and Kansas Pride

The Goldback fuels Kansas’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small transactions—from Topeka’s food co-ops to Dodge City’s craft markets. With inflation looming, its gold backing offers stability, echoing Kansas’s steadfast nature. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: wheat fields, the State Capitol, or Coronado’s trail. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money fans, while dealers thrive under tax relief. This is Kansas’s chance to shine—literally.

Kansas-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Francisco Coronado searching for Quivira, honoring the 1541 expedition that tied Kansas to gold legends.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts John Brown at Osawatomie, torch in hand, celebrating the abolitionist who shaped Bleeding Kansas.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases the Kansas State Capitol dome in Topeka, its golden hue reflecting the state’s governance legacy.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Amelia Earhart soaring over Atchison, honoring the aviation pioneer born in Kansas.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures a sunflower field near Wichita, capturing Kansas’s agricultural heart and natural beauty.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Kansas’s history and resilience, blending value with heritage.

A Golden Call to Lead the Heartland

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Kansas can lead the Heartland. With SB 115 advancing, a top-10 Sound Money Index ranking, and a pioneering past, Kansas is primed to champion this currency in the Midwest. Let’s urge the Senate to pass SB 115 and launch a Kansas Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Lawrence to Liberal—proving the Sunflower State isn’t just America’s breadbasket but its golden frontier. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Kansas golden.