Oregon

The Beaver State’s Golden Legacy

Oregon, the "Beaver State," ignited a gold rush in 1851 when prospectors struck it rich along Josephine Creek, launching a frenzy across the Rogue, Illinois, and Applegate rivers—over 5 million ounces have been mined since. From the iconic Beaver Coins of 1849 to modern minting by Portland’s Valaurum, Oregon’s gold story runs deep. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this heritage, offering Oregonians a tangible link to their pioneering past. Why not let Oregon shine as the next golden frontier?

Legislative Momentum: Oregon’s Golden Opportunity

Oregon’s legislature is clearing a path for gold transactions. Since 2019, Oregon has had no state sales tax on precious metals—a rarity in the West. In 2023, House Bill 3192 (HB 3192) proposed exempting precious metals from the Corporate Activity Tax (CAT), passing the House Revenue Committee—revived in 2025 as House Bill 2055 (HB 2055), which passed the House on February 19, awaiting Senate approval as of February 26, 2025. These steps make Oregon Goldback-ready, easing the way for everyday gold use.

Economic Resilience and Oregon Pride

The Goldback boosts Oregon’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s ideal for small buys—from Bend’s craft breweries to Medford’s farmers’ markets. With inflation looming, its gold backing offers stability, mirroring Oregon’s rugged resolve. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: Crater Lake, Sacagawea, or Multnomah Falls. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money fans, enhancing local trade. This is Oregon’s golden chance.

Oregon-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a miner at Josephine Creek, recalling the 1851 gold rush that sparked Oregon’s mining boom.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Sacagawea near the Columbia River, honoring her role with Lewis and Clark in Oregon’s exploration history.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Multnomah Falls in golden mist, reflecting Oregon’s iconic natural beauty.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Beverly Cleary in Portland, celebrating the beloved children’s author born in McMinnville.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Crater Lake at sunrise, embodying Oregon’s deepest, most stunning natural wonder.

These designs turn the Goldback into a vibrant tribute to Oregon’s history and landscapes, blending value with Beaver State pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the Northwest

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Oregon can lead the Northwest. With HB 2055 advancing, no sales tax on metals, and a gold-rich past, Oregon is primed to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the Senate to pass HB 2055 and launch an Oregon Goldback series—crafted by Portland’s own Valaurum. Imagine gold in every hand—from Astoria to Klamath Falls—proving the Beaver State isn’t just a pioneer of the past but a golden innovator today. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Oregon golden.