Maine

The Pine Tree State’s Golden Roots

Maine, the "Pine Tree State," has a history of rugged independence and resourcefulness—qualities gold embodies. While not a gold rush state, Maine’s early economy thrived on trade and craftsmanship, from shipbuilding in Bath to lumber in Bangor. The Pine Tree Riot of 1772, a pre-Revolutionary act of defiance over timber, mirrors the spirit of sound money. The Goldback—a voluntary, gold-based currency—fits Maine’s ethos of self-reliance, offering a tangible alternative to an uncertain dollar. Let’s bring a touch of gold to Maine’s enduring legacy.

Legislative Advantage: Gold-Friendly Moves

Maine’s legislature is poised to make gold transactions seamless. Currently, gold and silver bullion face a 5.5% sales tax under Title 36, Section 1752 of Maine Revised Statutes, but capital gains taxes on precious metals were eliminated in 2023 via LD 1478, a rare Northeast win for sound money advocates. As of February 2025, Legislative Document 2025-103 (LD 103)—inspired by states like Montana—is under review to exempt gold and silver from sales tax and affirm them as legal tender for state debts. If passed, this would make Maine a pioneer in New England, perfectly aligning with the Goldback’s small-denomination practicality.

Economic Strength and Maine Pride

The Goldback is a lifeline for Maine’s economy. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s ideal for small purchases—from Portland’s lobster rolls to Augusta’s craft fairs. With inflation looming, its gold backing offers stability, resonating with Mainers’ practical streak. Imagine a Maine Goldback series featuring the state’s icons: Acadia, lighthouses, or Longfellow. These notes would double as collectibles, boosting tourism and local spirit. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw customers seeking sound money, while dealers benefit from tax relief. This is Maine’s chance to shine with economic and cultural gold.

Maine-Specific Goldback Designs

Here’s how Maine’s Goldback denominations could spotlight its significant people and places:

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Joshua Chamberlain at Little Round Top, honoring the Civil War hero from Brewer whose Gettysburg charge turned the tide for the Union.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts the Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse (1791), symbolizing the state’s maritime heritage and enduring vigilance.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in Portland, pen in hand, celebrating the poet whose works like "Paul Revere’s Ride" echo Maine’s literary legacy.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Acadia National Park’s Cadillac Mountain, its golden sunrise over the Atlantic, capturing Maine’s wild beauty and tourism crown.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures a Penobscot canoe on the Allagash River, nodding to Maine’s indigenous heritage and outdoor traditions.

These designs transform the Goldback into a tribute to Maine’s history, culture, and landscapes, blending value with pride.

A Golden Call to Lead New England

Utah, Nevada, and Wyoming have Goldbacks, but Maine can blaze a trail in New England. With LD 103 advancing, a legacy of independence, and a knack for thriving against odds, Maine is ready to lead the region in sound money. Let’s push the Legislature to pass LD 103 and launch a Maine Goldback series. Imagine gold circulating from Kittery to Caribou, proving Maine’s not just "Vacationland" but a land of vision. The Pine Tree State can set the gold standard for the Northeast.

Stand tall. Make Maine golden.