Mississippi

The Magnolia State’s Golden Legacy

Mississippi, the "Magnolia State," has a golden thread woven into its history—fine placer gold speckles its rivers, like the Homochitto and Tallahatchie, carried by ancient streams and panned by prospectors since the 19th century. While not a major gold rush hub, tales of buried treasure along the Gulf Coast add luster to its past. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this heritage, offering Mississippians a tangible link to their roots. Why not let Mississippi bloom with gold?

Legislative Goldmine: Mississippi’s Sound Money Victory

Mississippi’s legislature has struck gold for sound money advocates. On April 19, 2023, Governor Tate Reeves signed Senate Bill 2862 (SB 2862), exempting gold and silver bullion and coins from the state’s 7% sales tax, effective July 1, 2023—passed overwhelmingly with 52-0 in the Senate and 115-0 in the House. In 2025, House Bill 518 (HB 518) has advanced through the House Ways and Means Committee on February 20, recognizing gold as legal tender—awaiting full House approval. Mississippi’s framework makes it Goldback-ready.

Economic Resilience and Magnolia Pride

The Goldback strengthens Mississippi’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Jackson’s catfish shacks to Biloxi’s coastal markets. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, echoing Mississippi’s enduring resolve. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the Mississippi River, Natchez Trace, or Elvis Presley. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money fans, enhancing local trade. This is Mississippi’s golden chance.

Mississippi-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a prospector panning the Homochitto River, nodding to Mississippi’s placer gold heritage.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts William Faulkner at Rowan Oak, honoring the Oxford literary giant who won the Nobel Prize.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases the Natchez Trace Parkway, its golden path winding, reflecting Mississippi’s historic trail.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Elvis Presley at Graceland’s gates, celebrating the Tupelo-born King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the Mississippi River at Vicksburg, embodying the state’s lifeblood and Civil War legacy.

These designs turn the Goldback into a tribute to Mississippi’s history and culture, blending value with Magnolia pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the South

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Mississippi can lead the South. With SB 2862’s tax relief, HB 518’s legal tender push, and a golden past, Mississippi is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the House to pass HB 518 and launch a Mississippi Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Hattiesburg to Greenville—proving the Magnolia State isn’t just a Southern gem but a golden one. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Mississippi golden.