Hill 1

Hill 1 Mine

Custer County, South Dakota

The Hill 1 deposit is a hard rock mine located in the Pringle area of Custer County. The old-timers knew the hillside around the mine as a productive area for surface hunting. The hard rock deposit was discovered over 30 years ago just below the surface. The diggings have now reached a depth of 6 feet, making further exploration with hand tools difficult. The colors are primarily beige and tans highlighted with reds and yellows. However unique agates of every color combination have come from Hill 1. This deposit has been a consistent producer of smaller gem agates with minimal fractures that make for great jewelry pieces. Although rare, a few larger museum quality agates are found most digging seasons.