U.S. Virgin Islands

A Caribbean Gem with Golden Resilience

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), a vibrant Caribbean territory, blends a rich history—from Danish rule to U.S. stewardship—with a resilient spirit shaped by its people. While not a traditional gold mining hub, its strategic trade past and modern tourism boom reflect a knack for economic innovation. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—offers the USVI a chance to lead U.S. territories in embracing sound money, echoing its legacy of adaptability. Why not let this tropical paradise be the first to shine with gold?

Legislative Opportunity: A Golden Framework

The USVI Legislature can set a pioneering standard for gold transactions. With no local sales tax, gold faces only federal capital gains taxes under 26 U.S.C. § 1. In 2024, Senator Marvin Blyden introduced Bill 35-0235, proposing to recognize gold and silver as voluntary tender for territorial debts—passed by the Committee on Finance on February 10, 2025, awaiting full Senate vote as of February 26, 2025. If enacted, this leverages the USVI’s autonomy under the Revised Organic Act, making it the first territory primed for Goldbacks.

Economic Strength and Virgin Islands Pride

The Goldback enhances the USVI’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s ideal for small buys—from St. Thomas’s market stalls to St. Croix’s local crafts. Amid inflation and tourism-driven economics, its gold backing offers stability, aligning with the islands’ enduring resilience. Picture a Goldback series showcasing USVI icons: Fort Christian, Emancipation Garden, or Queen Mary. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could spark trade, making the USVI a golden leader.

U.S. Virgin Islands-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features Queen Mary leading the 1878 Fireburn revolt, symbolizing St. Croix’s fight for labor rights and resilience.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Fort Christian in Charlotte Amalie, honoring St. Thomas’s 1672 Danish stronghold and historical anchor.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Emancipation Garden in golden bloom, reflecting the 1848 abolition of slavery on St. Thomas.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights David Hamilton Jackson at Liberty Day, celebrating the St. Croix educator who fought for free press in 1915.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Trunk Bay’s golden shores on St. John, embodying the USVI’s natural beauty and tourism crown.

These designs transform the Goldback into a vibrant tribute to the USVI’s history and culture, blending value with Virgin Islands pride.

A Golden Call to Lead the Territories

States like Utah and Nevada have Goldbacks, but the U.S. Virgin Islands can be the first territory to claim this honor. With Bill 35-0235 advancing, a rich legacy of resistance and renewal, and a tourism-driven economy, the USVI is poised to lead U.S. territories in sound money. Let’s urge the Legislature to pass Bill 35-0235 and launch a USVI Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Christiansted to Frederiksted—proving the Virgin Islands aren’t just a Caribbean getaway but a golden trailblazer. The time is now.

Rise up. Make the USVI golden.