The world's fifth-largest gold producer, America mined an estimated 170 metric tons of the precious metal in 2023. Gold mining may still be going strong, but the glory days of the American gold rush – when prospectors would travel thousands of miles in the hope of striking it rich –are long gone.

However, tales of the lucky few who made their fortunes have a special place in America's history. Read on as we turn back the clock to look at the most significant gold rushes in US history. 

All dollar amounts in US dollars.