Mining has been a significant activity in the United States since colonial times, evolving into a major industry during the 19th century due to numerous mineral discoveries that triggered various mining rushes. In 2015, the mining sector in the United States yielded a total value of US$109.6 billion from the extraction of coal, metals, and industrial minerals.
In 2019, the nation ranked as the fourth-largest global producer of gold, the fifth-largest producer of copper, and the fifth-largest producer of platinum. Additionally, it held the tenth position worldwide in silver production, the second spot in rhenium and sulfur production, and the third position in phosphate and molybdenum production. Furthermore, it was the fourth-largest producer of lead and zinc, the fifth-largest producer of vanadium, the ninth-largest producer of iron ore and potash, the twelfth-largest producer of cobalt, and the thirteenth-largest producer of titanium. Notably, it claimed the title of the world’s largest gypsum producer and was the second-largest producer of kyanite, limestone, and salt. In 2018, it secured the tenth position globally as a uranium producer.
In 2020, the following states in the U.S. emerged as the leading producers of nonfuel mineral commodities, each contributing more than $2 billion to the industry:
- Nevada
- Arizona
- Texas
- California
- Minnesota
- Florida
- Alaska