PRODUCTION.
The total statistics of the production of gold and silver for 1903 are furnished, as heretofore, by the Director of the Mint, but the statistical canvass made by the United States Geological Survey resulted in some differences in the distribution of the product among the several States and Territories.
During the calendar year 1903 the United States produced 3,560,000 fine ounces of gold, valued at $73,591,700, a decrease of $6,408,300, or 8.01 per cent, as compared with the production of 1902.
Of the 21 States and Territories yielding gold in 1903, 11 showed an increase in production, Nevada leading with an increase of $492,700, or 17.02 per cent. Alaska, which led in increase in 1902, was second in 1903, with an increase of $268,900. Kansas and Tennessee, with productions valued, respectively, at $9,700 and $800, reported for the first time in 1903. The other States and Territories showing gains in 1903 were as follows: Arizona, $245,300; Utah, $102,900; Idaho, $95,400; Montana, $38,300; Virginia, $10,400; Washington, $7,700, and Alabama, $1,900.
The greatest decrease in production in 1903 was in Colorado, where the production fell off $5,928,600, or 20.82 per cent. California was second in amount of decrease in 1903, falling off $687,600. Decreases were also noted in the following States and Territories: Oregon, $526,500; New Mexico, $286,500; South Dakota, $138,700; Georgia, $35,800; Wyoming, $35,200; South Carolina, $21,200; North Carolina, $20,200, and Maryland, $2,000.
The silver yield of the United States for 1903 amounted to 54,300,000 fine ounces, with a coining value of $70,206,060 and a commercial value of $29,322,000, a decrease in quantity of 1,200,000 fine ounces, or 2.16 per cent.
Of the 21 States and Territories producing silver in 1903,11 showed increased production. Nevada, which led in increase of production of silver in 1902, held the same position in 1903, showing an increase of 1,304,300 fine ounces, or 34.82 per cent. This great increase is due to further developments in the rich Tonopah district in Nye County. The following States and Territories also showed gains in production
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