South Carolina

The Palmetto State’s Golden Legacy

South Carolina shines with a rich golden history—home to America’s second gold rush in the 1820s. The Haile Gold Mine in Lancaster County, discovered in 1827, launched a boom that fueled towns like Kershaw and Jefferson, producing significant gold well into the 20th century. Today, Haile remains one of the Southeast’s largest active gold mines. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this legacy, offering South Carolinians a tangible link to their pioneering past. Why not let the Palmetto State reclaim its golden glory?

Legislative Goldmine: South Carolina’s Sound Money Progress

South Carolina’s legislature is forging a path for gold transactions. In 2016, the state eliminated sales tax on precious metals, easing everyday use. In 2024, House Bill 3080 (H3080)—the South Carolina Legal Tender Act—passed the House Judiciary Committee, recognizing gold and silver coins as legal tender, awaiting full House vote as of February 26, 2025. Building on prior efforts like H4678 (2019), this aligns with Article I, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution, making South Carolina Goldback-ready.

Economic Resilience and Palmetto Pride

The Goldback strengthens South Carolina’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small purchases—from Charleston’s shrimp baskets to Columbia’s craft stalls. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, reflecting the state’s enduring grit. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: Fort Sumter, the Angel Oak, or Blackbeard. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could draw sound-money enthusiasts, enhancing local trade. This is South Carolina’s golden moment.

South Carolina-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a miner at Haile Gold Mine, celebrating the 1827 discovery that sparked South Carolina’s gold rush.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Blackbeard off Charleston, honoring the pirate whose 1718 blockade shaped coastal lore.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Fort Sumter under golden cannon fire, reflecting its Civil War significance.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Nina Simone in Tryon, celebrating the musical legend born in the Palmetto State.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures the Angel Oak on Johns Island, embodying South Carolina’s natural majesty and resilience.

These designs transform the Goldback into a vibrant tribute to South Carolina’s history and culture, blending value with Palmetto pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the Southeast

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but South Carolina can lead the Southeast. With H3080 advancing, a gold rush legacy, and no sales tax on metals, South Carolina is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the House to pass H3080 and launch a South Carolina Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Greenville to Myrtle Beach—proving the Palmetto State isn’t just a historical gem but a golden innovator. The time is now.

Rise up. Make South Carolina golden.