10/10/2026
Some have been asking what a GOLDBACK is. Being that we are giving some away, we thought it best to explain what they are.
Goldbacks are the world's first physical, hyper-fractional gold currency designed for everyday public transactions. They were created to solve a centuries-old problem: physical gold has traditionally been stored in heavy, large-denomination coins or bars that are completely impractical for buying small, everyday items like a cup of coffee or a bakery treat.
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# # # The Origin: Utah (2019)
The Goldback project was launched in **2019** by Goldback Inc., starting with the **Utah series**. The concept was made possible by a partnership with **Valaurum**, a company that developed a specialized vacuum-deposition technology.
This manufacturing process bonds a precise, microscopic layer of **24-karat gold** between durable, flexible polymer sheets. The gold cannot be scraped off or separated without destroying the note, but its exact weight and purity can be verified, allowing physical gold to be divided down into tiny fractions.
# # # Core Characteristics & Design Philosophy
* **Fractional Denominations:** Standard notes range from small units up to larger holdings. A single `1 Goldback` note contains exactly 1/1,000th of a troy ounce of pure .9999 gold. Over time, expansions introduced smaller fractions—including the `1/4 Goldback` introduced in the Idaho series (containing 1/4,000th of an ounce).
* **Regional Art & "Lady Virtues":** Every state series features distinct, commissioned artwork created by local and traditional artists. Each denomination is fronted by a personified "Lady Virtue" (such as *Libertas* for Liberty, *Justitia* for Justice, or *Prudentia* for Prudence) paired with regional architectural, historical, or natural imagery unique to that specific state.
* **Security & Durability:** Because the gold is sealed inside tough polymer, the notes are resistant to water, tearing, and wear. They also incorporate advanced anti-counterfeiting features like micro-printing, serial numbers, and UV-reactive inks.
# # # Expansion Across the United States
Following the debut in Utah, Goldbacks expanded rapidly as a voluntary, complementary currency accepted by a growing network of independent merchants nationwide. New regional series rolled out sequentially:
* **Nevada & New Hampshire** (2020–2021)
* **Wyoming & South Dakota** (2022–2023)
* **Florida & Oklahoma** (2025)
* **Arizona & Idaho** (2026)
While each state series carries art specific to its region, Goldbacks from any state are functionally interchangeable as a medium of exchange based on their underlying gold content. Today, thousands of businesses across the country recognize them as a localized, inflation-resistant alternative to fiat currency.
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