American Tungsten & Antimony Ltd’s initial exploration at Dutch Mountain reveals a larger-than-expected tungsten system, supported by a fully permitted processing facility that could accelerate development in Utah’s Clifton Mining District.
- Phase 1 soil and rock chip sampling confirms extensive tungsten mineralisation open in all directions
- Dutch Mountain hosts America’s last active tungsten mine with historical grades around 1.7% WO3
- Only fully permitted tungsten processing facility in the district enables quicker project advancement
- Drilling Notice of Intent targets previously disturbed ground to fast-track approvals
- Engagement with U.S. Senator John Curtis highlights strategic government support
Exploration Breakthrough at Dutch Mountain
American Tungsten & Antimony Ltd (ASX: AT4) has announced promising early results from its phase 1 exploration program at the Dutch Mountain Tungsten Project in Utah. The company’s systematic soil and rock chip sampling has revealed that the tungsten-bearing system is significantly larger than initially expected and remains open in all directions. This discovery builds on the project’s historical pedigree as the site of the Fraction Lode Mine, the last operating tungsten mine in the United States before its closure in 2017.
What sets Dutch Mountain apart is not just the mineralisation but the strategic ownership of the only fully permitted tungsten processing facility in the Clifton Mining District. This infrastructure advantage sidesteps the often lengthy federal permitting processes that typically delay greenfield projects, positioning AT4 to fast-track studies and potentially accelerate production timelines.
Strategic Infrastructure and Regional Consolidation
The Dutch Mountain Project is more than a standalone asset; it is a cornerstone of AT4’s strategy to consolidate high-grade tungsten resources within the Great Basin region. Many private historical mines in the district remain stranded due to the absence of compliant processing facilities. By controlling a permitted 400 tonnes per day processing hub, AT4 aims to unlock value from these otherwise inaccessible deposits, creating a centralised processing solution that could catalyse regional development.
Managing Director Andre Booyzen emphasised this point, noting that the combination of the Fraction Lode’s high-grade potential and the permitted mill provides a clear pathway to production. The company is actively engaging with local stakeholders and government officials to strengthen its position, including a recent meeting with U.S. Senator John Curtis, who supports domestic critical mineral security and energy independence.
Next Steps: Drilling and Development
While no drilling has yet been conducted at Dutch Mountain, AT4 is preparing a Notice of Intent (NOI) for an initial drilling campaign. The company plans to focus on previously disturbed ground around the Fraction Lode open pit to expedite permitting and minimise environmental impact. This tactical approach aims to quickly assess the depth and lateral extent of the high-grade tungsten system.
Assay results from the recent surface sampling are pending and expected in early Q2 2026. These results will be integrated into geological models to refine drill targets. Concurrently, AT4 is conducting an engineering review of the processing facility to finalise restart schedules and explore potential capacity expansion to 850 tonnes per day.
Broader Implications for Critical Minerals Supply
AT4’s progress at Dutch Mountain aligns with a broader push to secure critical mineral supply chains within Tier-1 jurisdictions like the United States. Tungsten is a vital mineral for various industrial and defence applications, and domestic production reduces reliance on foreign sources. The project’s location in Utah, combined with government support and existing infrastructure, positions AT4 as a potential leader in revitalising American tungsten production.
Meanwhile, drilling continues at the company’s Antimony Canyon Project, further diversifying its critical minerals portfolio. Together, these initiatives underscore AT4’s ambition to become a vertically integrated, conflict-free supplier to Western economies.
Bottom Line?
With infrastructure in place and exploration confirming scale, AT4 is poised to fast-track American tungsten production; pending assay and drilling results.
Questions in the middle?
- How will pending assay results impact the scale and grade expectations for Dutch Mountain?
- What timeline can investors expect for drilling approvals and commencement at Dutch Mountain?
- Could AT4’s processing facility attract partnerships or acquisitions of other regional tungsten assets?