Massachusetts

The Bay State’s Golden Heritage

Massachusetts, the "Bay State," is a cradle of American history and commerce—from the Pilgrims’ landing at Plymouth in 1620 to Boston’s role as a Revolutionary War hub. While not a gold rush state, Massachusetts has a knack for turning resources into wealth, exporting nearly $2 billion in gold in 2014 alone through refineries like Metalor in North Attleborough. The Goldback—a voluntary, gold-based currency—fits this legacy, offering a modern twist on value and resilience. In a state that sparked liberty and innovation, why not pioneer sound money in New England?

Legislative Potential: A Golden Shift

Massachusetts can lead New England in gold-friendly laws. Currently, gold and silver face a 6.25% sales tax under MGL Chapter 64H, Section 6 for transactions under $1,000, and capital gains taxes apply per MGL Chapter 62. But change is brewing. In 2024, Senate Bill S.2399 proposed exempting precious metals from sales tax entirely, stalling in committee. As of February 2025, a revived S.2399—now aiming to nix both sales and capital gains taxes and affirm gold as legal tender—has cleared the Joint Committee on Revenue, awaiting Senate vote. If passed, Massachusetts could join states like Utah, making Goldbacks a seamless everyday option.

Economic Strength and Massachusetts Pride

The Goldback boosts Massachusetts’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Cape Cod clam shacks to Berkshires craft fairs. With inflation looming, its gold backing offers stability, resonating with the Bay State’s savvy roots. Imagine a Massachusetts Goldback series featuring icons: Plymouth Rock, Paul Revere, or the State House dome. These notes would be collectibles, drawing tourists and igniting pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money fans, while dealers thrive under tax relief. This is Massachusetts’s chance to shine—economically and culturally.

Massachusetts-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Plymouth Rock with a Pilgrim, marking the 1620 landing that shaped America’s early story.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Paul Revere on his midnight ride, lantern aloft, honoring the Revolutionary spark from Lexington to Concord.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Abigail Adams at Quincy, pen in hand, celebrating her advocacy for women’s rights and independence.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights the Massachusetts State House, its golden dome aglow, symbolizing the Bay State’s governance legacy.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Emily Dickinson in Amherst, amidst golden flowers, capturing Massachusetts’s literary brilliance.

These designs weave Massachusetts’s history and identity into a currency as enduring as the state itself.

A Golden Call to Lead New England

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Massachusetts can set New England ablaze. With S.2399 advancing, a revolutionary past, and a flair for progress, Massachusetts is primed to lead the region in sound money. Let’s urge the Legislature to pass S.2399 and launch a Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Boston to Pittsfield—proving the Bay State isn’t just history’s cradle but its golden future. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Massachusetts golden.