What Is a Goldback?
A Goldback is a physical gold currency note containing .9999 fine 24-karat gold. Each note is produced using a patented vacuum deposition process that embeds real gold between protective polymer layers. Goldbacks come in nine denominations across nine U.S. state series. Over 2,000 merchants accept them as voluntary payment. A single 1 Goldback contains 1/1,000 of a troy ounce of pure gold, making Goldbacks the most practical way to own, carry, and spend fractional gold.
How They're Made
The Artwork
Each state series features original artwork representing virtues and state identity. Goldback Inc. commissions artists to design every denomination. The front of each note depicts a female figure embodying a virtue: Fortitude, Justice, Prudence, and others. The back carries the state seal and denomination markings.
Security & Verification
Every production run undergoes X-ray depth measurement, fire assay of gold content, and third-party verification. Each note carries government-grade anti-counterfeiting features, unique crystallization patterns, and individual serial numbers. No Goldback has ever been successfully counterfeited.
Vacuum Deposition
Goldbacks are manufactured by Valaurum in the United States using a patented vacuum deposition process. Atomized 24-karat gold is deposited onto polymer sheeting in precise quantities. A 1 Goldback receives exactly 1/1,000 of a troy ounce. A 50 Goldback receives 1/20th. The gold is physically embedded between protective layers. It is not printed, plated, or coated.
Goldback Denominations
| Denomination | Gold Content | Troy Oz | States Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| ¼ Goldback | 1/4,000 oz | 0.00025 oz | Idaho |
| ½ Goldback | 1/2,000 oz | 0.0005 oz | FL, OK, AZ, ID |
| 1 Goldback | 1/1,000 oz | 0.001 oz | All 9 states |
| 2 Goldback | 1/500 oz | 0.002 oz | FL, OK, AZ, ID |
| 5 Goldback | 1/200 oz | 0.005 oz | All 9 states |
| 10 Goldback | 1/100 oz | 0.01 oz | All 9 states |
| 25 Goldback | 1/40 oz | 0.025 oz | All 9 states |
| 50 Goldback | 1/20 oz | 0.05 oz | All 9 states |
| 100 Goldback | 1/10 oz | 0.1 oz | FL, OK, AZ, ID |
Prices update daily based on the UPMA Goldback exchange rate. See current prices in the shop.
Where Are Goldbacks Legal Tender?
Goldbacks are recognized as legal voluntary tender in Utah, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Arizona. All nine state series can be spent at 2,000+ participating merchants nationwide. The Goldback app lists accepting businesses by location. The 1 and ½ denominations are the most commonly used for everyday purchases. Merchants set their own exchange rates based on the daily Goldback price set by UPMA at goldback.com.
Goldbacks vs Gold Coins
| Goldbacks | Gold Coins (Eagles, Maples) | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum buy-in | ~$2.25 (¼ Goldback) | ~$2,500+ (1 oz coin) |
| Gold purity | .9999 fine (24k) | .9167–.9999 (varies) |
| Spendable | Yes, 2,000+ merchants | Rarely accepted at face value |
| Divisible | 9 denominations | Must sell the whole coin |
| Legal tender | 4 states (voluntary) | Federal legal tender |
| Premium over spot | Higher (manufacturing + utility) | Lower (bullion premium) |
| Collectible | 9 state series, unique artwork | Limited designs per year |
Goldbacks and gold coins serve different purposes. Coins optimize for gold content per dollar. Goldbacks optimize for usability: fractional ownership, everyday spendability, and accessibility at any budget.
The 9 Goldback State Series
