If you think gold and silver are just for jewelry or investing, think again. A growing number of U.S. states now recognize these precious metals as actual currency. That means in certain parts of the country, you can legally use gold and silver coins—specifically U.S.-minted ones—to pay for things, just like you would with cash.
Which states accept gold and silver as legal tender?
So far, 11 states have already passed laws declaring gold and silver as legal tender or have removed tax penalties for using them. These states include:
- Utah – The first state to officially make gold and silver legal tender since 1933.
- Louisiana – Passed a law to exempt these metals from sales tax.
- West Virginia – Offers tax exemptions on gold and silver coin sales.
- Arizona – Removed capital gains tax on gold and silver in 2017.
- Oklahoma – Recognizes U.S.-minted gold and silver coins as currency.
- Texas – Introduced a bill to create a gold-backed legal tender system.
- Indiana, Kansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Wyoming have all either passed or proposed similar laws.
These laws align with Article 1, Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution, which says:
“No State shall make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts.”
Why are some states pushing for gold and silver currency?
If you are wondering why states are even thinking about using gold and silver as money again—it all comes down to financial freedom and state sovereignty.
Supporters argue that using precious metals helps protect citizens from inflation and the instability of paper currency. When gold and silver are accepted as legal tender, they are no longer subject to capital gains tax, which makes it easier for you to use them for transactions or store them as long-term savings.
In fact, states like Arizona have led the way by removing these taxes. “Arizona is declaring independence from the Federal Reserve’s money monopoly,” said Jp Cortez, policy director for the Sound Money Defense League.
The more states follow this trend, the more they chip away at the dollar’s dominance—something many gold and silver advocates believe is necessary for a healthier economy.
Can you really pay for things with gold or silver coins?
Technically, yes—but do not expect to walk into your local grocery store and hand over a silver coin just yet. While these coins are legally recognized as currency, the infrastructure and awareness for using them is still growing. Most of the laws simply give you the legal right to use precious metals without being penalized or taxed, especially for investments.
However, with states like Texas even exploring gold-backed systems through their own state depositories, the idea is catching on faster than you might think. If the trend continues, you might soon have more freedom over how you choose to save or spend your money—whether in dollars, gold, or silver.
What about California and Florida?
Surprisingly, California and Florida—despite being financial powerhouses—have not passed any laws making gold and silver legal tender. While individuals in those states can still invest in precious metals, they do not get the same tax advantages or legal tender recognition seen in other states.
If you are living in one of those 11 forward-thinking states, you are in a better position to benefit from the rising interest in gold and silver currency. And if you are not, keep an eye on your state legislature—more bills are being introduced every year.
