Gold Banknote 1 Arizona Goldback Gold Note, 1/1000 ounce

A gold banknote covered with a thin laminate as an alternative to paper dollars.

The 1 Arizona Goldback Banknote embodies Temperance - the virtue of temperance, a symbol of balance and strength that shaped southern Arizona in its early years. The scene is set in the desert landscape of the early 19th century, the Mexican era, following Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821. In the background is the Mission San José de Tumacácori, one of Arizona's oldest monuments and a pillar of faith and culture. Even in difficult times, the mission remained a spiritual center for local families. The town of Tubac, which as a former garrison (presidio) developed nearby, became a symbol of Mexican determination to build sustainable communities on the country's northern frontier. At the center of the composition stands a proud woman in 19th century Mexican dress. The embroidery on her skirt symbolizes the unity of cultures - indigenous peoples, Spanish and Mexican - that together shaped Arizona's identity. Around her come to life the symbols of the state: the saguaro flower, the cactus grosbeak, the papilio butterfly with two tails, as well as the desert tortoise, the peccary and the Harris's hawk gliding over the desert. At its feet grow corn, chili peppers and prickly pear, signs of gratitude for the abundance of desert soil. Together, Tumacácori and Tubac reflect an enduring harmony between Arizona's cultures and landscape. The whole is complemented by the message from Galatians 5:22-23: The fruit of the Spirit is temperance.