Louisiana

The Pelican State’s Golden Legacy

Louisiana, the "Pelican State," has a rich golden past tied to its New Orleans Mint, which struck over 427 million gold and silver coins from 1838 to 1909—more than any mint during the Civil War era. From pirate treasures rumored along the Gulf Coast to the modern unearthing of gold in everyday transactions, Louisiana’s history whispers of wealth. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this legacy, offering Louisianans a tangible link to their storied past. In a state that’s danced through history with flair, why not let gold take the lead again?

Legislative Goldmine: Louisiana’s Sound Money Win

Louisiana is a likely next candidate for Goldbacks as Louisianais in 12th place of the 2025 Sound Money Index and all 6 current Goldback states are in the top 12 Sound Money Index. Louisiana quickly climbed up the chart recently as it was not even listed in the top 12 for 2024. Louisiana’s legislature has struck gold for sound money advocates. On May 28, 2024, Governor Jeff Landry signed Senate Bill 232 (SB 232) into law, recognizing gold and silver coins, specie, and bullion as legal tender in the state, effective August 1, 2024. Passed near-unanimously, this builds on 2023’s HB 682, which exempted gold and silver from sales tax. Louisiana joins Utah, Oklahoma, Wyoming, and Arkansas as the fifth state to reaffirm gold as legal tender, with no state taxes on precious metal transactions. This framework makes Louisiana a Goldback paradise, ready for everyday use.

Economic Vitality and Louisiana Pride

The Goldback energizes Louisiana’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small purchases—from Baton Rouge’s crawfish boils to Shreveport’s local markets. With inflation threatening, its gold backing offers stability, resonating with Louisiana’s enduring resilience. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the French Quarter, pelicans, or jazz legends. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money enthusiasts, while dealers thrive under tax-free laws. This is Louisiana’s chance to shine—economically and culturally.

Louisiana-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Jean Lafitte with a golden cutlass, recalling the pirate who roamed Barataria Bay and aided the U.S. in 1815.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Huey Long atop the State Capitol, honoring the fiery governor who shaped Louisiana’s political landscape.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases the New Orleans Mint, its golden coins gleaming, celebrating its 19th-century minting legacy.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Louis Armstrong blowing his trumpet, capturing the jazz icon born in New Orleans who changed music forever.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the Atchafalaya Basin, its golden cypress trees reflecting, showcasing Louisiana’s wild, watery heart.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Louisiana’s vibrant history and culture, blending value with legacy.

A Golden Call to Lead the Gulf

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Louisiana can lead the Gulf Coast. With SB 232’s legal tender status, a top-tier sound money framework, and a flair for the extraordinary, Louisiana is primed to pioneer this currency in the South. Let’s rally businesses and citizens to launch a Louisiana Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Lake Charles to Monroe—proving the Pelican State isn’t just a cultural jewel but a golden one. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Louisiana golden.