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Hecla’s newest silver and gold mine, San Sebastian began mining ore in December 2015 from shallow, near-surface pits – though the company operated a series of surface trends and an underground mine from 2001-05. San Sebastian produced nearly 180,000 ounces of gold and 11.6 million ounces of silver during that time, making
it one of the highest-grade producers in Mexico. Hecla geologists have long recognized the potential for the district to host similar high-grade mineralization, and a systematic exploration effort has been in place since the company arrived in 1999.
Hecla’s holdings at San Sebastian are located on 162 square miles in the heart of La Faja de Plata (the Mexican Silver Belt) of north-central Mexico. It’s the most productive silver district in the world, having already yielded more than 10 billion ounces of silver and currently producing 100 million ounces annually. Many of the district’s mines have been in continuous production since the 16th century.
San Sebastian demonstrates a flexibility and responsiveness that belies Hecla’s 125 years. Early in 2015, it was an exploration project; on December 10, it began processing ore; less than two weeks later it produced its first doré. By year’s end, the mine had produced 75,552 ounces of silver and 705 ounces of gold with only a minimal capital investment.
Right: Surveyors at the San Sebastian mine in Durango. Facing page: At San Sebastian, the quick turnaround from exploration property in 2014 to operating mine in 2015 demonstrates Hecla’s ability to recognize and take advantage of robust economics within a low-price environment.
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