E79 Gold Mines (ASX: E79) has delivered extraordinary copper assay results from its Mountain Home Copper-Gold Project in the Northern Territory, with rock chip samples returning exceptional grades up to 35.9% copper. The latest reconnaissance program has dramatically expanded the known mineralised footprint, revealing multiple parallel copper-gold trends across a 3-kilometre strike length. With high-grade results including 24.3% Cu and 0.11g/t Au located 200 metres south of previous sampling, and 22.5% Cu and 1.56g/t Au on a parallel trend, the project is shaping up as a significant discovery in the prolific McArthur Basin.
Exceptional High-Grade Results Expand Discovery Footprint
The August 2025 field program delivered standout results that have transformed the project's potential scale. These remarkable findings demonstrate the growing significance of the E79 Gold Mines copper discovery at Mountain Home, which continues to exceed expectations with each exploration phase.
Primary Mountain Home Gossan Results:
- MHR040: 35.9% Cu – the highest grade recorded to date
- MHR037: 32.5% Cu – confirming exceptional grade continuity
- MHR039: 18.55% Cu – maintaining consistent high-grade mineralisation
Expansion Zone Highlights:
- MHR036: 24.3% Cu and 0.11g/t Au – 200m south extension
- MHR038: 22.5% Cu and 1.56g/t Au – 150m west on parallel trend
- MHR049: 2.53% Cu and 0.01g/t Au – 950m north extension
The results demonstrate that high-grade copper-gold mineralisation extends well beyond the original Mountain Home Gossan. Furthermore, CEO Ned Summerhayes highlighted the significance of these findings:
"The recent mapping and sampling programs were successful in significantly increasing the footprint of known high-grade copper and gold mineralisation at Mountain Home."
| Sample ID | Cu (%) | Au (g/t) | Bi (ppm) | Location Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MHR040 | 35.9 | 0.059 | 405 | Main gossan zone |
| MHR037 | 32.5 | 0.123 | 46.2 | Main gossan zone |
| MHR036 | 24.3 | 0.113 | 142.0 | 200m south extension |
| MHR038 | 22.5 | 1.560 | 387 | Parallel trend west |
| MHR039 | 18.55 | 0.184 | 570 | Main gossan zone |
Understanding Intra-Cratonic Copper-Gold Systems: World-Class Deposit Potential
Mountain Home exhibits characteristics of Intra-Cratonic Copper-Gold (ICG) systems, a deposit type that includes some of the world's most valuable mining operations. ICG systems are typically large-scale, high-grade deposits that form within stable continental crust, often hundreds of millions of years after major geological events.
Why ICG Systems Matter to Investors:
ICG deposits represent some of the mining industry's crown jewels, including Olympic Dam (copper-gold-uranium), Ernest Henry (copper-gold), Telfer (gold-copper), and Winu (copper-gold). These systems are characterised by their potential for exceptional scale, high grades, and long mine lives.
The presence of extreme bismuth concentrations at Mountain Home suggests possible similarities to the Tennant Creek Au-Cu-Bi deposits, adding another layer of geological significance. Consequently, consulting Geologist Carl Brauhart noted the project's compelling characteristics:
"The Mountain Home Project is in a very desirable address, with a geochemical signature and regional setting typical of Intracratonic copper-gold (ICG) systems."
These deposit types are formed when metal-rich fluids move through fractures and structural zones within ancient, stable rock formations called cratons. The fluids deposit copper and gold minerals in high concentrations, creating some of the world's most profitable mining operations.
The extreme bismuth values recorded at Mountain Home are particularly significant, as they may indicate similarities to other major copper-gold systems in the region. Moreover, this geological signature strengthens the investment case for the project's world-class potential.
Strategic Drilling Program Set for 2026 Launch
E79 Gold has secured all necessary approvals and agreements to commence its maiden drilling program. This milestone represents a critical step forward for the E79 Gold Mines copper discovery at Mountain Home, positioning the company for a transformational year ahead.
Key Milestones Achieved:
- ✅ Access agreement signed with local pastoralist
- ✅ Heritage survey fieldwork completed
- ✅ Results and certificates expected December 2025
- ✅ Initial drilling scheduled for 2026 post-wet season
Government Co-Funding Support:
- $150,000 grant for regional gravity survey (December 2025)
- $100,000 grant for initial RC drilling program (extended to May 2026)
- Total government support: $250,000
The upcoming 350km² gravity survey will map large-scale structures and identify priority drilling targets across the broader Mountain Home region. This comprehensive geophysical program could reveal additional mineralised zones beneath cover, potentially multiplying the discovery footprint.
The gravity survey uses sensitive instruments to measure variations in the Earth's gravitational field, which can indicate differences in rock density below the surface. These variations often highlight structural features such as fault systems that commonly control mineral deposits.
Combined with the existing surface geochemistry, this technique should provide E79 Gold with optimal drilling targets for the 2026 program. In addition, the systematic approach will ensure maximum value from the initial drilling campaign.
Investment Thesis: Exceptional Discovery Potential in Tier-1 Location
1. World-Class Geological Setting
Mountain Home sits within the McArthur Basin, home to the world's largest accumulation of zinc-lead deposits and increasingly recognised for its copper-gold potential. The project controls 1,366km² of highly prospective ground in this premier mineral province.
2. Exceptional Grade Profile
With copper grades reaching 35.9%, Mountain Home demonstrates world-class grade potential that significantly exceeds typical copper discoveries. The presence of gold credits (up to 1.56g/t Au) adds substantial value upside.
3. Expanding Discovery Footprint
Recent results have extended mineralisation across multiple parallel trends over a 3-kilometre strike length, indicating potential for a large-scale mineral system rather than isolated high-grade pods.
4. Government Partnership
The Northern Territory Government's $250,000 co-funding commitment validates the project's prospectivity and reduces exploration risk for shareholders.
| Comparison Metric | Mountain Home | Typical Cu Discovery |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Cu Grade | 35.9% | 1-3% |
| Strike Length | 3+ km | <1 km |
| System Type | ICG/IOCG | Various |
| Government Support | $250,000 | Limited |
| Regional Setting | McArthur Basin | Variable |
What Makes This Discovery Exceptional?
The E79 Gold Mines copper discovery at Mountain Home stands out in the current exploration landscape for several key reasons. The exceptional copper grades, expanding mineralised footprint, and strategic location combine to create a compelling investment opportunity.
However, the true value lies in the systematic approach E79 Gold has taken to understanding and delineating this discovery. The company has methodically expanded the known mineralised zone whilst securing all necessary approvals for the next phase of exploration.
Why Investors Should Track E79 Gold Closely
E79 Gold has positioned itself at the forefront of copper-gold discovery in one of Australia's most prospective mineral provinces. The combination of exceptional grades, expanding footprint, and world-class geological setting creates a compelling investment narrative.
Key Catalysts Ahead:
- December 2025: Gravity survey results and heritage approvals
- Early 2026: Maiden drilling program commencement
- H1 2026: Initial drill results from high-grade targets
The company's diversified portfolio across 2,401km² in Western Australia and Northern Territory provides multiple discovery opportunities. Furthermore, the recent Cue Gold Project acquisition adds further near-term production potential to the company's asset base.
Detailed outcrop mapping has identified an extensive network of mineralised structures extending for 3 kilometres north of the main Mountain Home Gossan. This structural mapping has revealed that the copper-gold-bismuth mineralisation occurs within brittle fault systems that could extend well beyond current surface expressions.
For instance, the consistent high-grade nature of surface samples suggests potential for significant continuity at depth. The geological model indicates that mineralisation may extend substantially below the current sampling zone.
Investment Highlight
E79 Gold has emerged as a standout copper-gold explorer with exceptional grades up to 35.9% copper at Mountain Home. With government co-funding secured, drilling approvals in place, and a 3-kilometre mineralised footprint confirmed, the company is positioned for a transformational 2026 drilling campaign in one of Australia's premier mineral provinces.
The convergence of exceptional surface grades, expanding mineralised footprint, government backing, and drilling readiness positions E79 Gold as a compelling exploration story entering 2026. With copper prices remaining elevated and major mining companies actively seeking high-grade copper-gold projects, the E79 Gold Mines copper discovery at Mountain Home warrants close investor attention.
Consequently, as the company progresses towards its maiden drilling campaign, the potential for a transformational discovery continues to build. The exceptional early-stage results, combined with systematic exploration methodology and strong government support, create an investment opportunity that merits serious consideration from resource sector investors.
Could E79 Gold Be Your Next Copper-Gold Discovery Play?
With exceptional grades up to 35.9% copper, government co-funding secured, and a maiden drilling program set for 2026, E79 Gold Mines is positioned at the forefront of copper-gold exploration in Australia's premier McArthur Basin. The expanding 3-kilometre mineralised footprint and world-class geological setting present a compelling opportunity for investors seeking exposure to high-grade copper-gold discovery potential. To explore E79 Gold's full project portfolio, drilling timeline, and investment opportunity in detail, visit E79 Gold's official website and discover why this Northern Territory copper-gold story deserves a place on your watchlist.
