The Principality of Sylvestria has achieved a significant industrial milestone with the successful completion of its first aluminum melt at the newly established national foundry. Over 100 aluminum cans, collected by citizens as part of the nation’s growing recycling program, were melted down for future use in producing coin blanks for the Royal Sylvestrian Mint and official government medals.
Director General Bart E. Belteaux celebrated the occasion, calling it “a proud moment in Sylvestrian history.” He revealed that the inspiration to create the foundry came during a conversation with President Kevin Baugh of the Republic of Molossia during Sylvestria's 2024 state visit to the Nevada-based micronation. “President Baugh’s passion and creativity inspired me,” Belteaux said. “It felt only right to send the first item successfully cast in our foundry to him as a formal 'thank you'.”
With this first melt now complete, Sylvestria’s foundry plans to expand its operations. Work is already underway to develop molds for future products, including cast garden tools such as sickles and knives, as well as silver and gold jewelry components for local artisans.
The foundry stands as a tangible result of Sylvestria’s drive for self-sufficiency and national pride—an effort powered by citizen participation, creative leadership, and a vision for a sustainable domestic economy.