Honoring the mine’s legacy, the Silver Valley based mine releases commemorative coin
Coeur d’Alene, ID – The Sunshine Mine in Kellogg, Idaho, known for its deep-rooted history, commemorates its 140th anniversary with the release of a limited-edition commemorative silver coin. Sunshine’s history is filled with monumental success, hardships, tragedy, and years of unparalleled support from the local community. Most recently, the mine has been undergoing a revival and is thrilled to mark this significant milestone.
In collaboration with Sunshine Minting Inc. (SMI) in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, the Sunshine Mine aimed to create a memorable medallion that pays tribute to the mining heritage of the Silver Valley. The silver used in the coins was recovered during the cleanup at the Sunshine Refinery and refined into pure silver grains by SMI’s Liberty Refiners in Hayden, Idaho. With a purity of 99.99%, the product was taken to Sunshine Mint where they collaborated closely with Sunshine Mine employees on the design and aesthetics of the coins. They were then manufactured, minted, and packaged at SMI’s Coeur d’Alene facility, showcasing the on-going legacy of Idaho’s mining and minting industries.
“This year long project has been a true journey for us, and we are thrilled with the end result. From conceptualization to the final design, we wanted to ensure that our team was proud of the finished product,” said Heather White, CEO of Sunshine Mine. “This marks a moment of celebration, and we know others share our excitement for the mine’s future.”
“We’re grateful for the collaborative effort with the Sunshine Mine team. Through the untraditional process, we were able to encapsulate their ideas and the legacy into this commemorative coin and are appreciative that we get to be part of such an incredible milestone,” Tom Power, CEO of Sunshine Minting expressed. “Sunshine Mine and Sunshine Mint have a longstanding relationship for over 40 years, and it’s an honor to be able to help celebrate this historic event for one of the most significant contributors of the silver mining industry.”
Discovered in 1884 by the Blake brothers, the Sunshine Mine, situated near Big Creek, became a vital part of the Silver Valley. Producing over 390 million ounces of silver over the years, it has solidified its place as one of the richest and most productive silver mines in U.S. history.
“The Sunshine Mine has consistently overcome challenges, emerging stronger each time,” stated White. “This coin is a tribute to the resilience of all miners and the lasting impact of the Sunshine Mine on the heritage of the American West and the State of Idaho.”
Commemorative coins are now available for purchase directly through the mine’s specialty website, and local retailers including the Museum of North Idaho in Coeur d’Alene as well as Sierra Silver Mine Tour and Idaho Silver Shop in Wallace. To learn more about the coins, please visit www.sunshinerefiningcompany.com or email [email protected].
