Big Thunder Gold Mine
Keystone, SD
From collectors
Big Thunder Gold Mine (Gold Hill Lode), originally named the Gold Hill Lode, was discovered in 1882. Because Big Thunder Mine is the safest and best maintained mine in the Keystone milling district, it has been the center of exploration in the area. Big Thunder Mine contains most of the types of rocks, structures, and minerals of the district.
Machine 1 is in the building where you purchase tickets for the tour. The machine is straight back from the front door. You do not have to go on the tour to reach the machine.
Designs:
1) Gold Miner panning for gold and says Big Thunder Gold Mine,
2) a Buffalo in a diamond with Keystone on the top two sides of the diamond and South Dakota on the bottom,
3) Mt Rushmore
4) Scenic view of Black Hills and trees with Black Hills South Dakota around the design.
6/16: A 4 design Pennyman Token machine was added here.
7/31/23 penny machine works.
Token machine is out of order.
08/04/2026: Penny machine works, rolling a bit long. Did not verify token machine.
Machines and designs
| Machine | Designs | Coin type |
|---|---|---|
| Machine 1 - in the building where you purchase tickets for the tour | 4 | Penny |
| Machine 2 - 2016 | 4 | Token |
2 photos from collectors
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