“The Silver State” is the nickname for Nevada. But what about the “Golden State” that refers to which state in the U.S.?
Welcome to the “Silver State” of America
The United States consists of 50 states, along with Washington D.C., a federal district under the authority of Congress. Throughout history, each state has had one or more various nicknames.
Some nicknames are unofficial, while others are recognized by the state government, including the nickname “Golden State” for California. So, which state is referred to as the “Silver State”?
The answer is Nevada.
Nevada is commonly known as the “Silver State,” a term that originated in the 19th century when people flocked from all over the world to Nevada to seek fortune in the Comstock hills. Today, Nevada is better known for gold mining, but in 2016, approximately 8.9 million ounces of silver were produced in Nevada, ranking second only to Alaska.
“Welcome to Nevada – The Silver State of America.” (Photo: Mgsrefining).
This nickname is an essential part of Nevada’s early history.
The history of silver mining in Nevada began before it became a state. In 1858, gold prospectors working in western Nevada discovered rich silver deposits in the Comstock Lode, near what is now Virginia City.
At that time, Nevada was part of the Utah Territory, not yet a state. As news of the silver discovery spread, gold seekers began to flock to the area. Silver mining quickly became one of Nevada’s largest industries, contributing to the region’s economy and the Union’s war efforts during the American Civil War (1861 – 1865).
Nevada became a state in 1864, during the Civil War. Since its statehood during wartime, Nevada is sometimes referred to as “The Battle Born State.” This phrase appears on the state flag and was used as an official nickname in the 20th century. Later, the nickname “Silver State” was also adopted for Nevada.
Since the 19th century, people from all over the world have flocked to Nevada to seek fortune in the Comstock hills. (Photo: News.thediggings.com).
In the 1980s, “Silver State” became ingrained in the minds of the populace as the silver mining industry boomed here. The term “Silver State” appeared on state license plates, making it one of the most recognizable phrases associated with Nevada. This means that “Silver State” has surpassed other nicknames to become Nevada’s most prominent name.
After becoming a state, silver mining continued to play a vital role in Nevada’s economy. The Comstock Lode began to decline around 1874, but new mines were opened in other parts of the state.
Silver mining remains an essential industry in Nevada in the 21st century. The Coeur Rochester mine is currently Nevada’s largest silver producer, alongside gold mining. Reports indicate that the Coeur Rochester mine generated revenue of $786 million in 2022. The total production of gold and silver for the entire year of 2022 was 330,346 ounces and 9.8 million ounces, respectively.
Silver mining continues to play a vital role in Nevada’s economy. (Photo: Nevadamining.org).
Although “Silver State” is closely associated with Nevada, another U.S. state has also used this nickname. Colorado, which also has a significant silver mining history, once used “Silver State” as its nickname. However, this is no longer in use. Colorado’s official nickname is “The Centennial State,” commemorating its admission to the Union in 1876, 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Today, Nevada is famously known for Las Vegas, the largest and most populous city in the state. Las Vegas proudly calls itself “The Entertainment Capital of the World,” featuring resorts, entertainment, casinos, and world-renowned cuisine.
Fascinating Facts About Silver
- With many unique properties, silver is used more than gold and is primarily utilized for industrial purposes.
- Silver is used in electronics manufacturing due to its resistance to corrosion. Therefore, silver is the number one choice for electronics or anything that uses electricity, such as printed circuit boards, switches, TV screens, phones, microwaves, children’s toys, and computer keyboards. This metal is highly reliable and durable through many cycles.
Silver is used in electronics manufacturing due to its resistance to corrosion. (Photo: Internet)
- As an attractive, reflective, and moldable metal, silver is used in jewelry and silverware. It is a cheaper alternative compared to gold – its “sister metal.”
- For centuries, many people have used silver vessels to hold water, wine, and vinegar to ensure freshness. Scientists have discovered that silver ions absorb oxygen, killing bacteria.
- As a result, NASA astronauts drink water purified with ionized silver. Silver ions kill bacteria in the water.
- Silver is used in “cloud seeding.” Its molecular structure is similar to ice, so silver iodide is released into the air to enhance cloud condensation, resulting in rain or snow.
- Silver is a crucial component in the production of solar panels due to its electrical and thermal conductivity. The metal captures sunlight and converts it into photovoltaic energy. 70 million ounces of silver were used in solar panel production in 2016.
The silver mine “devours” a 400-year-old city in the Andes
How much silver has been discovered globally?
After the “giant” diamond mine, Russia discovers the world’s largest gold mine
