Somerset’s Coppermine Drilling Begins Amid High Expectations and Historical Data Risks

Exploration Begins at a Promising Copper Frontier

Somerset Minerals Limited (ASX, SMM) has officially commenced its maiden drilling campaign at the Coppermine Project in Nunavut, Canada, marking a significant milestone for the company’s copper exploration ambitions. The approximately 1,500-metre reverse circulation drilling program is fully funded and permitted, targeting multiple high-grade copper anomalies identified through recent surface sampling and reprocessed geophysical data.

The initial focus is on the Coronation and Jura prospects, where Somerset has identified compelling targets. At Coronation, the company plans to test up to three induced polarisation (IP) anomalies coinciding with surface mineralisation, including two drill-ready zones extending up to 1.7 kilometres. Meanwhile, the Jura prospect features over 5 kilometres of outcropping copper mineralisation, supported by standout surface samples with copper grades as high as 19.10% and silver up to 24.3 grams per tonne.

Building on Historical Data and Regional Analogies

The Coppermine Project benefits from a rich historical dataset dating back to the 1960s, combined with modern geophysical interpretation. Somerset’s extensive landholding of 1,665 square kilometres in the Kitikmeot region includes 102 exploration licences and an exclusive exploration right with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. The geological setting is analogous to the renowned Keweenaw Peninsula copper deposits in Michigan, known for high-grade native copper in continental flood basalts.

Somerset’s Managing Director, Chris Hansen, highlighted the rapid progress since acquiring the asset just months ago. He emphasized the company’s confidence in the targets generated through integrated geological, geochemical, and geophysical work, and the potential for multiple copper discoveries across the district-scale project area.

Looking Ahead, Phase-2 and Beyond

While the maiden drilling campaign is underway, Somerset is already planning a larger Phase-2 exploration program. This next stage aims to expand drilling across additional high-priority targets including Laphroaig and Ardbeg districts, which border White Cliff Minerals’ recently active Rae Copper Project. The Phase-2 program is expected to significantly escalate exploration efforts, potentially unlocking broader copper-silver mineralisation across the underexplored region.

With initial assay results anticipated within 4 to 6 weeks, the market will be watching closely to see if Somerset can replicate or exceed the high-grade intercepts reported by nearby projects. The company’s strategic positioning and methodical approach set the stage for what could become a major new copper province in North America.