How Trigg Minerals Is Reviving a Historic US Tungsten District with Major Drilling Plans

Strategic Expansion into a Historic Tungsten District

Trigg Minerals Limited (ASX, TMG) has taken a decisive step to bolster its position in the critical minerals sector by securing claims over the vast majority of the Nightingale Tungsten District in Pershing County, Nevada. This acquisition encompasses a three-mile mineralised trend that includes multiple high-grade, historically productive tungsten mines, most notably the Alpine and Garfield Force Mines.

The Alpine Mine, a cornerstone of this portfolio, produced an estimated 564,000 pounds of 70% tungsten concentrate during World War II, underscoring the district's long-standing significance. The Garfield Force Mine adds further depth with reported grades reaching up to 1.0% tungsten trioxide (WO3) in remaining workings, confirming a substantial extension to the mineralised system now under Trigg's control.

Historical Data and Modern Opportunity

Historical exploration and mining activities, primarily conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and the U.S. Geological Survey in the mid-20th century, provide a rich dataset that Trigg plans to leverage. The tungsten mineralisation occurs within a contact-metamorphic skarn system, with scheelite as the primary ore mineral. Notably, the historical drilling intersected mineralisation at depths up to 107 meters, with mineralisation remaining open at depth and along strike.

Importantly, tungsten prices have surged more than tenfold since the 1940s, with current benchmarks exceeding US$49,000 per tonne, dramatically enhancing the economic potential of these deposits. Additionally, polymetallic signatures including silver and lead suggest valuable by-product credits that could improve project economics.

Upcoming Drilling Programs and Development Plans

Trigg is preparing two major drilling campaigns at the Nightingale Project and its existing Antimony Canyon and Tennessee Mountain projects. The Nightingale drilling will focus on defining a maiden JORC-compliant resource, with systematic testing of the Alpine and Garfield mines as primary targets. At Antimony Canyon and Tennessee Mountain, drilling is poised to commence shortly, with permitting streamlined by utilising previously disturbed ground and completed preparatory studies.

Managing Director Andre Booyzen emphasised the transformative nature of these developments, highlighting the strategic importance of establishing a secure, domestic supply chain for tungsten; a metal critical to defence, aerospace, and high-tech industries. The company's engagement with US government officials, including a recent meeting with Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox, reflects strong institutional support for these initiatives.

Positioning for a Critical Minerals Future

Trigg Minerals’ consolidation of high-grade tungsten assets in Tier-1 US jurisdictions aligns with growing global demand for conflict-free, reliable sources of critical minerals. The Nightingale District acquisition, combined with ongoing exploration at Antimony Canyon and Tennessee Mountain, positions the company as a potential key supplier in the Western tungsten market.

While historical data provides a promising foundation, the upcoming drilling results will be pivotal in confirming resource size, grade continuity, and economic viability. Trigg’s methodical approach to integrating historical knowledge with modern exploration techniques could unlock significant value for investors and stakeholders alike.