Minnesota

The Land of 10,000 Lakes’ Golden Heritage

Minnesota, famed as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," has a shimmering gold story beneath its waters. Since the 19th century, placer gold—carried by glaciers from Canada—has been found in rivers like the Zumbro and Lake Vermilion’s streams, with modern finds reported as recently as 2015 by the DNR near Tower. The Goldback—a voluntary, spendable gold currency—revives this legacy, offering Minnesotans a tangible link to their prospecting past. Why not let the North Star State shine with gold?

Legislative Momentum: Minnesota’s Golden Opportunity

Minnesota’s legislature is paving the way for gold transactions. In 2023, House File 73 (HF 73) expanded the sales tax exemption on gold and silver bullion coins, signed into law by Governor Tim Walz. As of February 2025, Senate File 112 (SF 112) has passed the Senate Tax Committee on February 20, proposing to recognize gold and silver as legal tender and eliminate remaining capital gains taxes—awaiting full Senate approval. These steps align Minnesota with states like Utah, making it Goldback-ready.

Economic Resilience and Minnesota Pride

The Goldback boosts Minnesota’s economy and spirit. Starting at 1/1000th of an ounce, it’s perfect for small buys—from Duluth’s smoked fish stands to St. Paul’s farmers’ markets. With inflation a concern, its gold backing offers stability, mirroring Minnesota’s sturdy resolve. Imagine a Goldback series showcasing state icons: Lake Superior, Prince, or the State Capitol. These notes would be collectibles, boosting tourism and pride. Businesses adopting Goldbacks could attract sound-money enthusiasts, enhancing local trade. This is Minnesota’s golden moment.

Minnesota-Specific Goldback Designs

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

• 1 Goldback (1/1000 oz): Features a prospector panning near Lake Vermilion, nodding to the placer gold finds that sparked dreams in the north.
• 5 Goldback (1/200 oz): Depicts Charles Lindbergh taking flight in Little Falls, honoring the aviator’s Minnesota roots.
• 10 Goldback (1/100 oz): Showcases Prince in Purple Rain glory at First Avenue, celebrating the Minneapolis music icon.
• 25 Goldback (1/40 oz): Highlights Judy Garland in Grand Rapids, capturing the "Wizard of Oz" star’s hometown legacy.
• 50 Goldback (1/20 oz): Pictures Lake Superior’s golden shores, reflecting Minnesota’s natural splendor and largest lake.

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

A Golden Call to Lead the Midwest

Utah, Nevada, and others have Goldbacks, but Minnesota can lead the Midwest. With SF 112 advancing, HF 73’s tax relief, and a golden past, Minnesota is poised to pioneer this currency in the region. Let’s urge the Senate to pass SF 112 and launch a Minnesota Goldback series. Imagine gold in every hand—from Rochester to Bemidji—proving the Land of 10,000 Lakes isn’t just water-rich but gold-rich too. The time is now.

Rise up. Make Minnesota golden.