Anthracite Coal in Colorado: Deposits, Quality, and Historical Mining

Presence of Anthracite

Yes, Colorado has significant anthracite coal deposits, primarily in the western part of the state.

Major Coal Fields

• Anthracite-Crested Butte (Gunnison County)
• Gunnison area
• South Park (Park County)

Characteristics

• High carbon content (86–98%)
• Low moisture and volatiles
• High heat value, clean burning

Historical Importance

Mined extensively late 19th–early 20th century for railroad, industrial, and residential heating. Production declined after WWII due to competition from natural gas and lower-grade coals.

Current Status

Reserves remain but are largely unmined; some small-scale extraction for specialty markets.