79 Mine
Chilito, Hayden area, Banner Mining District, Gila County, Arizona, USA
Key Information
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The 79 Mine, located in Gila County, Arizona, USA, is a former lead-zinc-copper mine, now on care and maintenance, last checked in 2024.
It is situated 1.5 miles west of Chilito ghost town, with coordinates approximately 33.064444° N, 110.813889° W.
The mine is known for 86 mineral species, including rare ones like Aurichalcite and Wulfenite, with unique occurrences like cuprian Smithsonite.
Geologically, it features limestone and rhyolite host rocks, formed through hydrothermal processes during the Laramide orogeny.
Mining began in 1879, with multiple ownership changes, and was active until the late 1990s, closing to collectors in 1992 due to mudslides.
The area, a ghost town, reflects Arizona's mining history, with a dry climate and diverse ecology from desert to forest.
Location and Accessibility
The 79 Mine is nestled in the rugged terrain of Gila County, Arizona, about 1.5 miles west of Chilito ghost town and 4.5 miles north-northwest of Hayden. Its coordinates, 33.064444° N, 110.813889° W, place it in a region accessible via federal land, ideal for enthusiasts exploring the Banner Mining District. Nearby, the Chilito Mine offers additional historical context for mineral hunters.
Minerals and Geological Interest
This mine boasts an impressive 86 mineral species, making it a treasure trove for collectors. Standouts include Aurichalcite, Smithsonite (notably cuprian, or green), Hemimorphite, Cerussite, Rosasite, and Wulfenite, with some specimens prized for their unique colors and crystal formations. The geological setting, with limestone and rhyolite, suggests hydrothermal activity, likely tied to the Laramide orogeny, creating a fascinating study for geologists.
Historical and Cultural Context
Discovered in 1879 by Mike and Pat O'Brien, the mine saw various owners, from Continental Commission Co. to Shattuck-Denn Mining Corp., operating until 1949, and later for specimens until the late 1990s. Closed to collectors in 1992 due to mudslides, it reflects Arizona's mining boom and bust. Chilito, now a ghost town, adds a layer of historical intrigue, echoing the region's mining past.
Climate and Environment
Gila County’s climate is dry, with about 14 inches of annual rainfall and varying snow, given the mine’s 3,799-foot elevation. The ecology transitions from desert to forest, offering a rich backdrop for wildlife and plant life, potentially influencing mineral preservation.