The 10 Utah Goldback is a remarkable piece of currency that combines beauty, history, and the inherent value of gold. This voluntary currency is not only spendable but also serves as a stunning representation of Utah's rich heritage.
Since the passage of the Utah Legal Tender Act in 2011, Utah became the first state in recent times to recognize certain forms of gold as legal tender. This groundbreaking legislation restored gold's official recognition as a form of money, paving the way for innovative currencies like the Goldback.
The technology used to mint the Goldbacks is truly cutting-edge. Each bill is carefully layered with .9999 fine gold through vacuum deposition technology, creating an exquisite and precise amount of pure gold within the bill's polyester layers. This ensures that the Goldbacks are both durable and resilient, capable of withstanding the test of time.
The Utah Goldback Series, the first of its kind, showcases the remarkable artistic talent of Cheri Jensen, a local Utah artist. Despite being blind in one eye, Jensen's intricate work brings the series to life, weaving a captivating narrative of Utah's history from its pre-settlement era to significant milestones and culminating in an inspiring representation of an idyllic future.
Justitia, the virtue of Justice, takes center stage in the 10 Goldback Design. Against the backdrop of southern Utah, with the iconic red cliffs and Balancing Rock, Justitia wears the attire of a settler from the early years of Utah's settlement. Traditional symbols of justice, such as the blindfold, two-edged sword, and scales, emphasize the virtues of impartiality, fairness, and decisiveness necessary for effective justice.
The scene also incorporates elements that symbolize the miraculous events experienced by Utah's settlers. A seagull carrying a cricket in its mouth recalls the intervention of seagulls that saved the crops from swarming crickets, and a desert storm represents the end of a devastating drought, both attributed to collective fasting and prayer. These symbols highlight the positive aspects of justice, emphasizing blessings and mercy alongside punishment.
Throughout the design, the intricate details continue to convey meaning. A sage hen with twelve chicks represents the protection and mercy that justice can provide, alluding to biblical references. The balances held by Justitia feature a cross, heart, and anchor, symbolizing faith, hope, and charity as integral components of justice and mercy.
Goldbacks, with their inherent value in gold, can be used for barter transactions with anyone who recognizes the worth of this precious metal. Whether treasured as a collector's item or utilized as a medium of exchange, the Utah Goldback is a testament to the fusion of artistry, history, and the enduring value of gold.
