Encore Gold and Coin is proud to educate our clients and community about innovative precious-metal products. One of the most talked-about developments in the bullion and numismatic space today is the Goldback.
This article explains what Goldbacks are, how they work, which states are participating or announced, what denominations are available by state, how people trade them, and important disclosures every buyer should understand.
WHAT ARE GOLDBACKS?
Goldbacks are physical gold notes produced by Goldback, Inc. Each note contains a precise amount of .9999 fine (24-karat) gold embedded between layers of clear polymer using a proprietary vacuum-deposition process.
Unlike traditional gold coins or bars, Goldbacks are extremely thin, flexible, and designed to represent fractional gold values that are practical for small transactions, barter, gifting, collecting, or diversification.
Goldbacks are not government-issued legal tender. They are a privately issued, voluntary gold currency that may be owned, traded, collected, or used anywhere both parties agree.
Official Goldback overview:
https://www.goldback.com/about-goldbacks/
HOW GOLDBACKS WORK
• Each Goldback contains real, measurable gold
• Denominations represent gold weight, not a dollar face value
• Market value fluctuates with the spot price of gold
• They are divisible, durable, and portable
• They may be traded for goods, services, fiat currency, or other precious metals
• Acceptance is voluntary and based on mutual agreement
Goldbacks typically trade at a premium above melt value due to manufacturing costs, market demand, and collector interest.
Goldback FAQ and usage details:
https://www.goldback.com/frequently-asked-questions/
PARTICIPATING STATES – OFFICIAL SERIES RELEASED
As of early 2026, the following states have officially released Goldback series with circulating notes:
UTAH
NEVADA
NEW HAMPSHIRE
WYOMING
SOUTH DAKOTA
FLORIDA
ARIZONA
OKLAHOMA
Each state series features unique artwork reflecting that state’s history, values, and symbolism.
Official state participation overview:
https://www.goldback.com/where-are-goldbacks/
CALIFORNIA ANNOUNCEMENT (JANUARY 6, 2026)
On January 6, 2026, Goldback, Inc. released news announcing that California will be participating in an upcoming Goldback state series!
This announcement confirms that California is planned as an official Goldback series as part of a 2026 rollout.
At the time of the announcement:
• California Goldbacks were announced but not yet released
• No final release date or denomination list was published
• Early references suggest a limited or “phase one” introduction before a full series
• This announcement does NOT indicate adoption as legal tender by the State of California
OTHER STATES DISCUSSED FOR 2026 RELEASE
In addition to California, the following states are actively being discussed within Goldback, Inc. communications and distributor channels as potential 2026 releases:
COLORADO
IDAHO
These states have not yet been officially released as of this writing. Release timing, denomination availability, and final confirmation are subject to change.
Goldback expansion announcements and updates:
https://www.goldback.com/news/
ARIZONA
½, 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 Goldbacks
OKLAHOMA
½, 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 Goldbacks
CALIFORNIA (ANNOUNCED – DETAILS PENDING)
Denominations not yet officially published as of January 6, 2026
COLORADO (DISCUSSED – NOT YET RELEASED)
Denominations to be determined
IDAHO (DISCUSSED – NOT YET RELEASED)
Denominations to be determined
WHERE PEOPLE BUY, SELL, AND TRADE GOLDBACKS
Goldbacks may be bought or exchanged through:
• Encore Gold and Coin as your local gold bullion dealer
• Authorized Goldback distributors
• Online precious-metal retailers
• Peer-to-peer private sales and collector marketplaces
Goldback exchange and usage guidance:
https://www.goldback.com/where-to-exchange/
WHAT PEOPLE TRADE GOLDBACKS FOR
Goldbacks are commonly traded for:
• U.S. dollars
• Gold and silver bullion
• Coins and numismatic items
• Goods and services where accepted
Merchant usage and community trade examples:
https://www.goldback.com/6-ways-to-use-goldbacks/
WHY COLLECTORS AND BULLION INVESTORS CARE
Goldbacks appeal to collectors and investors because they offer:
• Real gold ownership in highly divisible form
• State-specific artwork with numismatic appeal
• A complement to traditional coins and bars
• Potential barter and alternative-currency use
• Durable, portable, and easily verifiable gold content
BOTTOM LINE
Goldbacks occupy a unique position between bullion and currency. They are not intended to replace traditional coins or bars, but to complement them by providing fractional gold that is easy to trade, store, and collect.
For bullion investors, they offer flexibility.
For numismatists, they offer artistry and variety.
For traders, they offer an alternative form of sound money.
ABOUT ENCORE GOLD AND COIN
Encore Gold and Coin
www.encoregoldandcoin.com
6827 Lonetree Blvd., Suite 101B
Rocklin, CA 95765
Phone: 916-872-1562
Visit us in store or online to learn more about gold, silver, bullion, coins, Goldbacks, jewelry, currency and other various collectible precious-metal products.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
Encore Gold and Coin is an independent precious-metals dealer and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of Goldback, Inc. unless expressly stated.
Goldbacks are not legal tender, are not issued or guaranteed by any government, and are not required to be accepted by any individual or business.
Goldbacks contain real gold, but pricing may include premiums above intrinsic gold value. Premiums, availability, acceptance, and resale value may vary based on market conditions.
Nothing in this article constitutes investment advice, legal advice, or tax advice. Precious-metal purchases involve risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Buyers should conduct their own due diligence and consult appropriate professionals when necessary.
