North Carolina

The Tar Heel State’s Golden Past

North Carolina, the "Tar Heel State," sparked America’s first gold rush in 1799 when Conrad Reed found a 17-pound nugget in Cabarrus County, igniting a boom that made the state the nation’s top gold producer until 1848. Mines like Reed Gold and Gold Hill unearthed riches, cementing North Carolina’s legacy as a gold pioneer. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this heritage, offering Tar Heels a modern connection to their storied past. Why not let North Carolina reclaim its golden crown?

Legislative Goldmine: North Carolina’s Sound Money Moves

North Carolina’s legislature is paving a golden path. In 2023, House Bill 721 (H721) proposed studying a state gold bullion depository, passing the House State Government Committee in June—though it stalled, it’s been revived in 2025 as House Bill 103 (HB 103), which passed the House Appropriations Committee on February 20, 2025, aiming to establish the depository and recognize gold as legal tender, awaiting full House approval. With no state sales tax on precious metals, North Carolina is Goldback-ready.

Economic Strength and Tar Heel Pride

The Goldback bolsters North Carolina’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Raleigh’s barbecue joints to Asheville’s craft markets. With inflation a worry, its gold backing offers stability, echoing the state’s resilient roots. Picture a Goldback series showcasing state icons: the Wright Brothers, Grandfather Mountain, or Biltmore Estate. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money fans, enhancing local trade. This is North Carolina’s golden moment.

North Carolina-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Conrad Reed with his 17-pound nugget, celebrating the 1799 find that launched America’s first gold rush.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, honoring their 1903 flight that soared from North Carolina’s sands.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Biltmore Estate in Asheville, reflecting the state’s architectural grandeur and tourism legacy.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Nina Simone in Tryon, celebrating the musical icon born in North Carolina’s foothills.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Grandfather Mountain at sunrise, embodying the state’s rugged natural beauty.

These designs turn the Goldback into a vibrant tribute to North Carolina’s history and culture, blending value with Tar Heel pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the Southeast

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but North Carolina can lead the Southeast. With HB 103 advancing, a gold rush legacy, and a knack for innovation, North Carolina is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the House to pass HB 103 and launch a North Carolina Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Charlotte to Wilmington—proving the Tar Heel State isn’t just first in flight but first in gold. The time is now.

Rise up. Make North Carolina golden.