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Idaho Studio (25) UV

Making the Idaho Goldback: A Collaboration with Idaho’s State Treasurer

Idaho is a state of firsts. It has a long history of advancements that have impacted American progress, including:

  • Scientific breakthroughs in nuclear energy
  • Advances in irrigation and high-desert farming
  • The invention of the television by Idaho native Philo T. Farnsworth

This pattern of ingenuity made Idaho a natural fit as the 9th state to have a full Goldback series—and the first to include a 1/4 Goldback denomination!

When we began designing Idaho Goldbacks, our goal was to create a currency that reflects the state’s legacy of innovation. To ensure we told that story accurately and respectfully, we worked closely with Idaho leaders and community voices, including the state treasurer.

Working with Idaho’s State Treasurer

Idaho Studio (25) UV

We consulted directly with Idaho State Treasurer, Julie Ellsworth, during development of the series. In early discussions of the 25 Goldback design, a different concept was considered. Treasurer Ashworth recommended highlighting Idaho’s role in nuclear energy.

In 1951, Experimental Breeder Reactor I near Arco became the first power plant to generate electricity from nuclear energy. Shortly after, Arco became the first city in the world powered by nuclear energy.

This insight from Treasurer Ellsworth helped shape the direction of the 25 denomination, and now we’re proud to preserve this story within the Idaho Goldback series.

The Design Process

Each denomination in the Idaho series, including the 25 Goldback, was hand-drawn by artist Paul Pederson. Every concept was researched, reviewed, sketched, and refined before final production. Live models were used for reference, historical elements were vetted, and feedback from Idaho voices shaped the final artwork.

The intention with every Goldback series is to approach the project with care and respect, and Idaho was no exception.

Launch Details

The Idaho Goldback series launches March 24, 2026. Preorders begin March 10.

We look forward to putting Idaho’s legacy into your hands!