United States Antimony Begins Mining at Stibnite Hill, Montana
United States Antimony Corp. (NYSE-A: UAMY) has commenced exploration and bulk sampling operations at its Stibnite Hill mine in Montana. The company secured permits from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), enabling it to mine and process antimony ore onsite. This marks a significant milestone for USAC as it aims to integrate mining and processing operations fully.
The Stibnite Hill mine is adjacent to USAC’s Thompson Falls smelter, one of only two antimony smelters in North America. The smelter currently produces about 15 million pounds of antimony oxide or 5 million pounds of antimony metal annually. With the DEQ approvals, the smelter can now process ore directly from Stibnite Hill, boosting USAC’s production capabilities.
Stibnite Hill Project: United States Antimony’s Fully Integrated Operation
The Stibnite Hill project represents USAC’s first fully integrated antimony operation. Joe Bardswich, EVP and chief mining engineer, highlighted that the company acquired mineral leases and properties in the area, which it mined over two decades ago. Following permit approvals, USAC began processing its first loads of raw antimony ore this year.
The company plans to expand its processing capacity further at the Thompson Falls smelter. USAC also holds extensive mining claims in Alaska but faced delays in permit approvals there. Meanwhile, the Montana operation moves ahead as the flagship site.
SuperMetalPrice Commentary:
United States Antimony’s launch of mining operations at Stibnite Hill strengthens its position in the antimony market. The fully integrated operation—from mine to finished product—enhances supply chain security and supports critical material demand, particularly for defense applications. USAC’s recent $245 million contract with the Defense Logistics Agency underscores the strategic importance of this move. Investors should watch how the increased production capacity influences antimony pricing and market dynamics going forward.
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