AngloGold Ashanti Donates Local Gold to Restore Denver Capitol Dome

Posted on September 27, 2011 by Minerals Make Life

In observance of a proud state tradition, AngloGold Ashanti recently donated a 55-pound gold doré ingot in an effort to restore Denver’s capitol dome.

The New York Times reported that the dome, originally gilded in 1908, will be refurbished with gold from Colorado’s Cripple Creek & Victor mine—the same mine from which the original gilding was sourced.

The practice of using exclusively Colorado-mined gold was broken in the early 1990s, when the dome was last regilded. Anglo’s donation reinstates that tradition, and contributes to a public monument that will serve as a lasting point of pride for Colorado miners. As the Denver Post reported:

“It’s your gold. It was mined by your colleagues, your friends, your community members,” said Mark Cutifani, chief executive officer of AngloGold Ashanti. “And as everybody in the industry knows, Colorado gold shines just a little bit brighter.”

Through the renovation, the cast iron enclosure of the dome and drum will be repaired as well. The Denver Post reported that fundraisers for the restoration are also seeking donations of copper sheeting to which “microscopically thin gold leaf” can be applied.

Pictured below, Mark Cutifani, CEO, AngloGold Ashanti, presents the gold to Governor John Hickenlooper

Mark Cutifani, CEO, AngloGold Ashanti, presents the gold to Governor John Hickenlooper