Ask The Experts - Can a British citizen purchase a mining claim?

October 2018 by Scott Harn

Q: Can a British citizen purchase a placer claim in Idaho?
  Dennis

A: Ownership of a mining claim is governed by the 1872 Mining Act, which states that mining claims are available to “…citizens of the United States and those who have declared their intention to become such…” The only exception I am aware of is for a foreign company with a properly registered subsidiary in the United States.

If you purchase that mining claim, someone could file a claim over yours, contest your rights and take legal possession if you do not meet the above requirements.

by Scott Harn

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