Verified answer

The question is irrelevant. The EPA now requires water exiting a mine to have the same pollution levels as waters entering a mine. This policy has effectively eliminated small mining claims in Alaska.

It all depends on location! You can get a nice piece of vertical ground for just pennies. We often hear of stories of how people find gold in the oddest places. One guy found a piece just after the city spread gravel on his icy street!

good luck as where determines cost.