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First Class Metals #FCM – Operations update
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive land holdings, remains focused in northern Ontario, Canada, is pleased to announce significant advancements in field activities and supporting technical developments.
Highlights
· Coco East property- field work completed, base metal potential.
· Sunbeam Project- 85 samples from Nuinsco diamond core drilling dispatched for assay.
· North Hemlo- 25 coarse rejects from Dead Otter trend to be re-assayed by Photon Assay
· Zigzag Lithium & Critical Metals Project- Award of an Exploration Permit for three years
Marc Sale First Class Metals CEO Commented:
“At FCM we persist in our aim of enhancing the value of the portfolio. The field work at Coco East ensures the property’s positive standing beyond 2024, furthermore we eagerly await the results from the prospecting in a new area of historic potential. The review of the historic drill core from the Sunbeam Property was our initial focus this year after EGS ‘found’ the TerraX core. The significance of the review is the revelation that from the stripping at Roy and Pettigrew the host porphyry was proved to be auriferous: successful resampling here could revolutionise the property’s potential.
Despite Dead Otter’s assays being the highest recorded from the North Limb of Hemlo, we suspect coarse gold might be skewing fire assay results, possibly misrepresenting the samples. Adopting Photon Assaying, a relatively new method, may resolve this issue.
Lastly the award of a further three years Exploration Permit at Zigzag, supported by the Whitesand First Nation is a welcome event. The permit opens up the new structure we delineated in the south and gives us more options on the core structure that we drilled last December.
It’s been a busy few months for FCM as we enter the summer period with a lot of activity still to look forward to.
As a follow up to my recent field trip to northwest Ontario we have populated additional information to the Data Room and received request from a further company to review specific properties.”
Coco East
The Coco East property not only has potential for precious metal targets but also base metals. The geophysical anomaly in the northern sector has been interpreted as a potential eastern continuation of the ‘zinc belt’ from the Winston Lake area.
Figure 01 Showing the recently re-discovered adit – mine working – in the norther area of the property.
FCM through Emerald Geological Services (‘EGS’) recently undertook a prospecting programme in the northern sector of the property. A previously unknown adit was encountered. Searches of the Ontario Mineral Index ‘OMI’ registrar is ongoing to ascertain if there is any historical information associated with the workings. A number of rock samples were collected from this area of the adit as well other locations and will be dispatched for analysis.
The exploration programme whilst brief has been successful and importantly the assessment credits the work generates will ensure the property remains in good standing into the ’25 field season.
North Hemlo, Dead Otter Trend
The Dead Otter Trend has discontinuous outcrop along the identified >3km strike. The structure mimicking the granite / mafic volcanic contact is sheared and contains significant quartz veining. Where outcrop allows sampling, the gold reported in assays has reached 19.6ppm Au, (19.6g/t). However, there are areas where, whilst gold has been visibly identified in rock samples, the assays have not reflected the apparent potential to report significant gold values. There is possibly a ‘coarse gold issue’ in the northern sector. Additionally, the presence of silver and gold telluride (calaverite) further suggests that the assays are not reflecting the true gold content of the quartz / shear.
Given the relatively small fraction of the overall samples that are used in a standard 50g Fire Assay method, FCM through EGS has selected 25 samples for Photon Assay which utilises a 500g sample in the assay. The sample is run through a high energy X-ray machine which excites the atomic nuclei in the rock, causing them to emit gamma rays at specific energy levels. These emitted gamma rays allow for the detection of gold and silver within the rock sample and, is a non-destructive methodology, as opposed to traditional fire assay, allowing the sample to be retained for further analysis.
The samples are from the original Dead Otter Showing (3.1ppm Au), the ’19 grammer’ as well as samples from Bobby’s Showing which reported 2.2ppm Au.
It is anticipated that this new method of analysis will enhance the potential of the Dead Otter trend and help focus stripping programme the planned this field season.
Sunbeam
After a review of the historic TerraX and Nunisco drill core a total of 83 half core samples (plus one standard and a blank) have been submitted to assay for gold by Fire Assay and a silver / multi element package.
The basis for the additional review and sampling of the core results from the stripping programmes at Roy and Pettigrew that identified that the hosting porphyry was anomalous in gold, with one grab sample reporting over 4ppm Au.
Zigzag
The Exploration Permit application to the Ontario Ministry has been approved for a further three years. The granting of the Permit allows for stripping and further drilling on the main zone identified by FCM’s prospecting, channel sampling and drilling in 2023. The zone remains open in all directions, including down dip.
Previously reported results from an MMI soil sampling programme indicated not only is the main zone open past FCM and historical drilling and channel sampling locations but that there exists the possibility of a subparallel or spur structure to the south (anomalous values reported included Li, up to: 2,600ppm; 4,290ppm Rubidium; 920ppm Cs. The granted permit will allow this to be stripped and if warranted drilled.
Ends
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited(Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/ George Duxberry |
www.novumsecurities.com |
(0)20 7399 9400 |
NOTES TO EDITORS
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals listed on the LSE in July 2022 and is focused on metals exploration in Ontario, Canada which has a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. In particular, the Hemlo ‘camp’ near Marathon, Ontario is a proven world class address for gold exploration, featuring the Hemlo gold deposit operated by Barrick Gold (>23M oz gold produced), with the past producing Geco and Winston Lake base metal deposits also situated in the region.
FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt, exploring for gold, base metals, and rare earth element mineralization. In addition, FCM is carrying out a joint venture with Palladium One on the West Pickle Lake Property in the region, a drill-proven ultra-high-grade Ni-Cu project.
The flagship property North Hemlo had a high-definition low level magnetic Heli-borne survey flown in April 2022, this was followed with ground prospecting which ultimately defined the ‘Dead Otter Trend’ which is a discontinuous 4.5km gold anomalous trend with a 19.6g/t Au peak grab sample. This sampling being the highest known assay ever recorded on the North Limb of Hemlo.
In October 2022 FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high-grade past-producing Sunbeam gold mine near Atikokan, Ontario, ~15 km southeast of Agnico Eagle’s Hammond Reef gold deposit (3.3 Moz of open pit probable gold reserves).
FCM acquired the Zigzag Project near Armstrong, Ontario in March 2023. The property features Li-Ta-bearing pegmatites in the same belt as Green Technology Metals’ Seymour Lake Project, which contains a Mineral Resource estimate of 9.9 Mt @ 1.04% Li2O. Zigzag was drilled prior to Christmas 2023 and results have now been released.
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relates to ‘nearology’, since all properties lie in the same districts as known deposits (Hemlo, Hammond Reef, Seymour Lake), and either contain known showings, geochemical or geophysical anomalies, or favourable structures along strike from known showings (e.g. the Esa project, with an inferred Hemlo-style shear along strike from known gold occurrences).
#FCM First Class Metals – KERRS GOLD PROPERTY EARN-IN AGREEMENT SIGNED
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian, focused in north west Ontario land holdings, is pleased to announce the signing of the Kerrs Gold earn-in agreement.
Highlights
· The Kerrs Gold Project in Northeastern Ontario holds a historic resource estimate of 386,467 Oz (ounces) of Au (gold) as per the NI-43-101 standard.
· Located in the Timmins Mining Camp which is one of the most prolific camps for gold production in Canada. Nearby producing gold mines are operated by Newmont (Hoyle Pond & Hollinger) and McEwan Mining(Black Fox Complex).
· Accessible by road and close to existing mining and service infrastructure.
· Comprehensive historical data review with a view to creating a greater understanding of the resource and its potential is underway. Results from which will allow for the planning of an initial summer field campaign on the property
Marc Sale First Class Metals CEO Commented:
“The signing of this deal signifies two important events for FCM, firstly reinforcing the concept of identifying opportunities to add value then monetise, secondly the potential acquisition of the Kerrs Gold Project catapults FCM from an explorer to a company with a resource. Given the continuous rise in gold prices, with new all-time highs being reached, the opportunity to earn into Kerrs Gold is an incredibly appealing proposition for FCM”
Kerrs Gold Property Background
Further to the announcement of 3 April 2024 and prior to the expiry of the thirty day exclusivity agreement FCM has now executed an option to purchase agreement with the 100% owners of the Kerr gold property claims. The deal outline is summarised at the foot of this release.
On completion of the terms of the Agreement FCM will control 100% of the Kerrs Gold Project located in northeastern Ontario.
The road accessible Kerrs Gold Deposit consists of 36 units totalling approximately 665 hectares and lies 90 kilometres east-northeast of Timmins, in the Larder Lake Mining Division.
Geologically the Project is located in the Abitibi Greenstone Gold Belt, see Figure 01.
Figure 01 showing the district scale location of the Kerrs gold property as well as significant producing mines in the area.
The occurrence was discovered by Noranda in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s by following glacial dispersion trains ‘up-ice’ to the source. Drilling continued into the late 1980’s, with further drilling in the early to late-2000 and early 2011. The drilling database was used to calculate the 2011 historic resource estimate, with further drilling completed subsequent to the release of the estimate, see Figure 02.
Figure 02 at property scale showing the significant historical sampling as well as the drill grid
Kerrs Gold is considered a stratabound deposit, occurring at the contact of a thick, mafic pillow flow sequence overlying an ultramafic, magnetite-rich flow sequence. Quartz feldspar porphyry sills are spatially located above and below the breccia zones. This stratigraphy is synclinally folded with the deposit lying 350m to 425m below surface. Drilling has traced the main zone 800 metres and remains open in both directions and at depth.
Gold mineralisation occurs as pyritized quartz vein replacement breccias enveloped by quartz fuchsite carbonate vein breccias averaging approximately 10 m and alteration envelopes varying up to 40 m in thickness. Gold tenure is proportional to the pyrite content ranging up to 10% which is commonly disseminated and crystal aggregates in the sheeted, quartz vein replacement breccias. These breccias, averaging 31% quartz, exhibit reasonable correlation conforming to volcano-stratigraphic contacts as well as moderate to good continuity in grade correlations at the lower and upper boundaries of the vein breccia and alteration envelope assemblages.
The Kerrs Gold historical resources estimate of 386,467 Oz Au was disclosed in “NI 43-101 Resource Estimation on the Kerr’s Gold Deposit, Matheson, Ontario” prepared for Sheltered Oak Resources Inc. by Garth Kirkham, P. Geo of Kirkham Geosystems Ltd. And dated June 10, 2011.
FCM is reviewing the resource estimate with a view to it defining further exploration.
Whilst there was further drilling completed after the historic estimate was released FCM is not aware of any more recent resource estimates.
The resource estimation methods and parameters were as follows:
o Forty-one drill holes were utilized to interpolate the KBX Zone.
o Composite length of 2 m was chosen and composites were weighted by length.
o Sectional interpretations were wire-framed to create 3-D solids of the zones.
o Zones were coded to the composites, and the block model, to constrain the modelling process.
o Composites for the mineralised zone were used to interpolate into the blocks foreach zone.
o Ordinary kriging was used as the interpolator.
o Relative elevation modelling was used to guide the ellipse orientation that accounts for the variation in dip due to the synclinal structure.
o A minimum of two composites were used for each block and a maximum of two composites were used per drill hole; a maximum of 12 composites were used per hole.
o A cutting factor was applied for gold with outlier composites limited to 10 g/t Au based on cumulative frequency plots. A zero cut-off grade was used for the manual polygonal method.
The Kerrs historic estimate is an inferred resource as defined in National Instrument 43-101. The table below shows the potential ounces with differing cut of grades. FCM would look at remodelling the resource in order to identify higher grade envelopes for targeting in any proposed future drilling.
|
Kerrs Resources Estimate Cut-Off Grade |
TONNES |
GOLD (g/t) |
Metal (OZ.) |
|
0.5 |
7,041,460 |
1.71 |
386,467 |
|
1 |
5,237,213 |
2.04 |
342,856 |
|
1.5 |
3,375,361 |
2.47 |
268,468 |
|
2 |
1,936,189 |
3.04 |
188,972 |
|
2.5 |
1,165,664 |
3.57 |
133,778 |
|
3 |
818,171 |
3.94 |
103,622 |
FCM has already instigated a review of the historical information, particularly the drilling in order to fully appraise the potential of the resource. The review will also include a property-wide appraisal of the potential for further targets for prospecting as well as possible future drilling.
The Kerrs property is not currently permitted and once the data review has been completed in conjunction with ground appraisal a permit will be drafted for consultation with the local First Nations.
The Company plans an immediate review of the historical database to define target areas to both significantly expand the historic resource and to test for additional structures. The Company has yet to verify the historical data.
Terms of Deal
|
Due Date |
Share Payments |
Cash Payment (CAD) |
|
Upon signing the Agreement |
– |
$6,000 ($10,000 less $4,000 exclusivity deposit) |
|
Six months after effective date |
$10,000 |
|
|
Within four months of signing the Agreement on the publication of a prospectus |
CAD20,000 in share value1 |
|
|
On the 1st anniversary of the Effective Date |
CAD30,000 in share value1 |
$30,000 |
|
On the 2nd anniversary of the Effective Date |
CAD40,000 in share value1 |
$40,000 |
|
On the 3rd anniversary of the Effective Date |
CAD60,000 in share value1 |
$60,000 |
|
Total |
CAD150,000 in share value |
$150,000 |
1 Shares to be issued at the mid-price on the day of issue
Ends
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
Novum Securities Limited (Financial Adviser)
|
David Coffman/ George Duxberry |
www.novumsecurities.com |
(0)20 7399 9400 |
#FCM First Class Metals – ZIGZAG LITHIUM-HIGH GRADE CHANNEL SAMPLES
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is pleased to announce a further, significant, update on the progress on the Zigzag property which is currently focussed on the lithium and tantalum potential.
Highlights:
· Channel 7 2.36% lithium (Li2O) over 5.5m
including 2.5m at 3.44% Li2O.
· Channel sample results identify a >1% Li2O zone on the western portion of the ‘core’ 400m zone. Significant number of channel samples return more than >1% Li2O.
· Prospecting identifies mineralisation in a subparallel zone, assays pending.
Marc J. Sale First Class Metals CEO commented:
“The results from the channel samples have vindicated our enthusiasm to advance the potential of this property. The tenure of the spodumene and therefore the lithium reporting in the central sector of the property gives increased confidence in the prospectivity over the strike extensions. We are eagerly advancing the planning for drilling now the funds have been secured.”
Figure 1 showing the Zigzag property with the recent sampling, both grabs and channels, focussing on the central portion of the claim block.
The channel sampling was based on the visually encouraging results from the prospecting and associated grab samples.
The complete table of the grab samples was reported in a previous news release, however the 10 best ‘grabs’ are reproduced below.
|
Sample_No. |
Caesium Cs_ppm |
Gallium Ga_ppm |
Lithium Li_ppm |
Rubidium Rb_ppm |
Tantalum Ta_ppm |
|
F006543 |
92.6 |
107 |
17000 |
820 |
75.2 |
|
F006545 |
128 |
101 |
16500 |
1190 |
115 |
|
F006549 |
77 |
118 |
21200 |
302 |
80.6 |
|
F006573 |
85 |
112 |
17800 |
536 |
179 |
|
F006574 |
102 |
152 |
29700 |
404 |
57.3 |
|
F006576 |
81.7 |
124 |
22300 |
514 |
467 |
|
F006580 |
70 |
113 |
18500 |
650 |
145 |
|
F006583 |
36.5 |
108 |
20100 |
255 |
235 |
|
F006586 |
44.5 |
117 |
18300 |
846 |
724 |
|
F006592 |
66.9 |
153 |
27500 |
587 |
54.3 |
Table 1, showing the 10 highest grab samples along a 400m ‘core’ zone.
Nine channels were cut with lengths of under 5m to over 10m, channel lengths were usually controlled by overburden and not by diminished outcrop. A total of 80 samples were submitted to the laboratory for analysis, these included, where exposed not only the pegmatite but one, one metre sample in the host rock, which is in general mafic volcanics to the north and granitic rocks to the south.
The samples can therefore be easily segregated into four broad categories: mafic, pegmatitic, granitic pegmatites and granite.
Figure 2 showing the location of the channels relative to the ‘core 400m’ zone.
The results from the channels are very encouraging. It must be stressed that only hand stripping of vegetation was undertaken and often, exemplified by channels 5 and 7, the outcrop persisted but the vegetation cover was too onerous to be removed by hand. Accordingly it is felt that with mechanical stripping many of these channels could be extended. Additionally it is also likely that ‘gaps’ in the outcrop continuity might also be exposed as being pegmatite when exposed with mechanical stripping. The current permit allows both stripping and drilling.
The results have not only vindicated the grab samples in respect to the lithium oxide content but also highlighted again the presence of other important, critical minerals such as tantalum, gallium and rubidium.
|
Channel |
Length (metres) |
Lithium (Li20%) |
Tantalum (Ta205) ppm |
Gallium (Ga) ppm |
Rubidium (Rb20) ppm |
|
3 |
2.4 |
0.81 |
170 |
80 |
2000 |
|
Includes |
1.00 |
1.31 |
170 |
90 |
2920 |
|
3 |
3.1 |
1.52 |
60 |
90 |
1820 |
|
Includes |
0.9 |
2.54 |
100 |
110 |
2550 |
|
and |
0.5 |
2.05 |
40 |
100 |
950 |
|
4 |
1.8 |
1.85 |
220 |
90 |
1740 |
|
5 |
2.2 |
0.96 |
130 |
90 |
1280 |
|
Includes |
0.8 |
1.39 |
100 |
100 |
940 |
|
6 |
2.00 |
1.96 |
160 |
110 |
1170 |
|
7 |
5.5 |
2.35 |
150 |
120 |
1740 |
|
Includes |
2.5 |
3.43 |
170 |
140 |
1270 |
|
8 |
1.8 |
1.03 |
110 |
80 |
2070 |
|
Includes |
0.5 |
1.43 |
90 |
90 |
1050 |
|
9 |
1.9 |
1.15 |
290 |
80 |
1400 |
|
Includes |
0.6 |
2.19 |
500 |
80 |
1010 |
|
9 |
3.7 |
1.14 |
150 |
100 |
1290 |
|
Includes |
1.9 |
1.41 |
160 |
100 |
1710 |
Photo 1 showing the extent of outcrop exposed by hand stripping. Also not the change in rock type from mafic volcanics (closest) to granitic-pegmatite.
Hand stripping and channel sampling does not allow continuous sampling of the structure as it is obscured by soil, moss and other vegetation. It is believed that once mechanical stripping is undertaken the continuity of outcrops will be further enhanced.
Photo 2 showing sample of the spodumene rich pegmatite
Further prospecting and exploration
Prospecting and soil sample lines were conducted to the south of the ‘main’ pegmatite zone.
A subparallel structure has been identified to the south. Sample results are pending but visual evidence suggest a second pegmatite or a splay may exist to the south of the main zone which has been the current focus of exploration.
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
|
|
Ayub Bodi, Executive Director |
07860 598086 |
First Equity Limited
(Financial Adviser & Broker)
|
Jonathan Brown |
0207 3742212 |
|
|
Jason Robertson |
0207 3742212 |
|
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals is focussed on exploration in Ontario, Canada which has a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class address for gold /VMSexploration. This geological terrane has significant production, both base / precious metals and a prolificnumber of exploration projects and numerous prospector’s ‘showings’.
FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt which also contains the >23M oz shear hosted Hemlo gold mine operated by Barrick Gold. Late last year FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high grade (gold) Sunbeam past producing mine
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relate to: ‘nearology’ insomuch that all properties lie close to identified mineral anomalism, for example Palladium One’s RJ and Smoke Lake nickel projects are close to the FCM’s West Pickle Lake drill proven Ni-Cu project. This also demonstrates the second critical asset the properties hold: vector, anomalies, be they geological, geochemical, or geophysical that have demonstrated mineral potential extend on to FCM’s properties.
The inferred shear on the Esa property is being explored by neighbours both to the west and east where it crosses into their properties. Furthermore, the properties have not been extensively explored either historically or more contemporaneously. This is attributable to the overall lack of outcrop. However, modern exploration techniques are better able to ‘see through’ the ground cover and to identify anomalies.
#FCM First Class Metals – Exploration Agreement signed with Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK listed metals exploration company seeking economic metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo, Sunbeam and Zigzag land holdings is pleased to announce the signing of an Exploration Agreement (‘EA’) with the Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation (“NNFN” or “the Community”) covering the North Hemlo, Esa & Sugar Cube Properties.
Highlights
· Under the signed Exploration Agreement, the Company will continue to conduct mineral exploration with the support of the Community. The agreement promotes unity and a mutually beneficial and respectful relationship between First Class Metals and the Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation.
· The EA allows for the exploration of the North Hemlo, Esa & Sugar Cube Properties which are located within the Traditional Territories of the Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation.
· The Exploration Agreement recognizes and respects the Aboriginal and Treaty rights and interests of the Community with their constitutional and other legal rights.
· The Exploration Agreement is in line with the First Class Metals’ commitment to build sincere relationships with First Nation Communities. We have an active interest and respect for all people, and we understand the social, environmental, and economic implications of our activities.
Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation Commented-
“NNFN has a long history of productive engagement with the mining industry and supports mining activity in areas that are mutually beneficial to the First Nation and to its industry partners. We commend the importance First Class Metals places on engagement with our community, and its commitment to protect our lands and waters. FCM’s pro-active engagement with NNFN is a model for other companies seeking to work in our territory.”
Marc J Sale, First Class Metals CEO Commented–
“I am extremely pleased that the efforts to establish a transparent honest relationship with NetmizaaggamigNishnaabeg First Nation and their representatives has culminated in the signing of this agreement and I look forward to working with the Community as we progress First Class’s exploration areas. Now this EA has been granted we intend to imminently start a stripping program on the Esa Property, with the intention of bringing it to a true ‘drill ready status”
For further information, please contact:
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
|
|
Ayub Bodi, Executive Director |
07860 598086 |
First Equity Limited (Financial Adviser & Broker)
|
Jonathan Brown |
0207 3742212 |
|
|
Jason Robertson |
0207 3742212 |
|
First Class Metals #FCM – Commencement of Field Operations
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK metals exploration company seeking large scale metal discoveries across its extensive Ontario land holding is pleased to provide an operations update on activities across the portfolio.
Highlights
- Canada field work has been initiated, with three exploration teams deployed.
- Channel Sampling of the Rare Earth Element (REE) Diatreme at McKellar underway.
- Sunbeam historic review widened to encompass detailed core review from historical drill holes. Grades up to 93.3g/t Gold (AU), see table 2.
- Field base set up and exploration soon to commence on the North Hemlo and Esa properties to follow up on the successes of 2022.
First Class Metals PLC through its 100% owned Canadian subsidiary controls nine properties in northwest Ontario, see figure 1. The properties cover collectively 230km² though three properties account for over 60% of the area under licence. The properties have assessment credits through 2023, regardless, FCM intends to undertake exploration of all the properties this field season, with the intention of drilling at least one.
Figure1-Northwest Ontario showing the locations of the FCM properties with Sunbeam in the West through to Zigzag and then the Schreiber-Hemlo Properties in the East.
Marc Sale CEO commented:
“FCM is pleased to announce that exploration has now started for the 2023 Field Season, we have a vigorous programme planned to follow up on last year’s stellar performance, specifically At North Hemlo and Esa with the intention to define drill targets. FCM will also undertake exploration at Sunbeam to define drill targets as well as prospecting the wider licence. Similar work is also intended at Zigzag. Other properties will be explored, further evaluated as time and priorities allow. The priority remains to drill at least one location this season.”
McKellar
Initial field work will focus on the McKellar Rare Earth Element (REE) diatreme, this work has commenced with a programme of sawn channel sampling being conducted, see figure 2.
Figure 2-the Emerald Geological Services (EGS) team cut channels being sampled at McKellar.
The McKellar diatreme occupies a topographic low and occurs within a north trending linear structure. The diatreme breccia may have been emplaced within a shear or fault zone, however, owing to vegetation cover geologic data to confirm this is vague.
Historically general prospecting, geological mapping and rock sampling of the diatreme was focused on discerning whether gold, platinum and palladium were associated with the diatreme structure and what REE the diatreme carried.
FCM has previously reported the historic assays from a prospecting programme in 2013 by R Renner, 5 bedrock grab samples were taken and assayed, results of which and other historic reported assayed samples from the diatreme area are included in the table below.
| Historical assay results for selected elements (including REE), McKellar Creek Diatreme: | Value |
| Gold Au | 25 ppb |
| Platinum Pt | 17 ppb |
| Neodymium Nd | 300 ppm |
| Lanthanum La | 400 ppm |
| Beryllium Be | 2.8 ppm |
| Cerium Ce | 513 ppm |
| Yttrium Y | 214 ppm |
| Strontium Sr | 1280 ppm |
| Thorium Th | 180 ppm |
| U308 | 38 ppm |
Table 1-Historic McKellar REE Diatreme grab sample assays.
During a brief campaign in 2022 the team collected ten rock samples, of which nine were grab samples of outcrop in the vicinity of an identified drill hole and the other a ‘float’ / boulder sample in a creek immediately to the southwest. The results were anomalous but did not replicate the historic grades. It is intended that the current sampling will verify and hopefully even expand the potential outlined by the historic assays.
Sunbeam Historic Drill Core Review
A second team is mobilising to review the historical drill core from the Sunbeam Property. This is in collaboration with and leads on from the detailed review of the historic data which is now complete.
Figure 3-EGS Team loading core for removal to a cutting facility for review.
Historical drilling at Sunbeam by Nuinsco:
In July 2021, Nuinsco reported grading up to 93.3g/t on a drill programme conducted within the Sunbeam Mine area. The drill programme was a follow up on a surface sampling programme which produced results up to 83.5g/t from underground waste rock from the Sunbeam mine. Eight drill holes totalling 1,091 metres were collared. Significant results include:
| Historic-Drill Hole | Assay-Comments/Observations |
| NS-21-01 | 3.98g/t Gold (Au) over 0.6m (from 96.0m) within 3.39m of strongly gold anomalous deformation zone. |
| NS-21-02 | 13.8g/t Au over 0.15m (from 80.85m) within 2.83m of strongly gold anomalous deformation zone. |
| NS-21-03 | 93.3g/t Au over 0.44m (from 99.5m) within 3.19m of strongly anomalous deformation zone. |
| NS-21-05 | 2.94g/t Au over 0.5m (from 118.5m) within 7.50m of strongly anomalous deformation zone. |
Table 2-Selected historic Sunbeam drill assays.
Further, three holes were drilled within 100m of the Pettigrew shafts. Hole 57751 intersected 19.4 g/t Au over 0.63m and 15.17 g/t over 1.37m in two zones separated by 15m.
In 2008, the Rubble occurrence was discovered on the property. Assays of up to 1.42 oz per ton gold have been obtained from pyritized and iron carbonate altered rocks.
A reinterpretation of the geophysics survey conducted by previous owners, Nuinsco is under way with Paterson Grant Watson (PGW).
North Hemlo & Esa
A third team is mobilising next week to continue the exploration at Esa, focusing on the anomalous soil sample results as well as the 0.7ppm boulder identified in the central eastern sector as detailed in the recent news release.
The team currently working on the McKellar diatreme will relocate to the North Hemlo project later this month. In order to bring the prospect to drill ready status, the intention is to follow up the encouraging sampling on the Dead Otter trend which has been sampled along its 3km plus length, which includes numerous gold occurrences up to 19.6 g/t Au. Over the winter months ninety-six lake sediment samples as well as a number of rock samples were collected from North Hemlo, results are pending.
Discussions are ongoing with drill companies to undertake a maiden drilling programme at Esa and or North Hemlo. To this end the Application for an Exploration permit to allow drilling is currently being reviewed by the First Nation groups with traditional lands covering Esa and North Hemlo.
Recon visits-Zigzag, Sugar Cube and Sunbeam
Reconnaissance trips have also been made to the Zigzag, Sugar Cube and Sunbeam properties to assess access. The intention at the Zigzag prospect is to undertake a field programme of sawn channel sampling to better quantify the strike length, width and tenor of the lithium and tantalum potential. The aim is to sample along the exposed outcrop of the pegmatite with sawn channels like at McKellar – equivalent to a horizontal drill hole.
Previous workers have identified Li₂O and Ta₂O5 mineralization along the entire length of the showing from sampling at surface, grading up to 1.68% Li₂O (Lithium Oxide) over 7.9m and 0.168% Ta₂O5 (Tantalum Oxide) over 2.54m in separate channels samples. Several shallow historic drill holes along the occurrence have returned significant intersections, including, (in separate drill holes) an intersection grading 1.08% Li₂O over 6.1m and a separate intersection of 399.8ppm Ta₂O5 over 2.92m. Both intersections were less than 20m down hole.
The occurrence is open along strike and depth and remains to be fully evaluated. It is anticipated that the channel sampling will allow a focused drill programme to be executed later in the season.
Field work at Sugar Cube will be to investigate – ground-truth- the potentially mineralised structures highlighted by the recently completed high resolution magnetic / electromagnetic (EM) survey.
Once the spring access is sufficiently advanced two teams will be deployed to Sunbeam; one will prospect the peripheral claims whilst the second team will focus on the mineralised trends containing the Sunbeam, Roy and Pettigrew mine shafts with the intention of determining drill targets for later in the season.
FCM is committed to exploring the properties currently under its control in order to add value and bring where warranted to a drill point.
For Further Information:
| James Knowles, Executive Chairman | JamesK@Firstclassmetalsplc.com | 07488 362641 |
| Marc J Sale, CEO | MarcS@Firstclassmetalsplc.com | 07711 093532 |
| Ayub Bodi, Executive Director | AyubB@Firstclassmetalsplc.com | 07860 598086 |
First Equity Limited
(Financial Adviser & Broker)
| Jonathan Brown | 0207 3742212 | |
| Jason Robertson | 0207 3742212 |
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals is focussed on exploration in Ontario, Canada which is considered a top global destination for explorationwith a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class address for gold/VMS exploration. This geological terrane has significant production, both base / precious metals and a prolific number ofexploration projects and numerous prospector’s ‘showings’.
FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt which also contains the >23M oz shear hosted Hemlo gold mine operated by Barrick Gold. Late last year FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high grade (gold) Sunbeam.past producing mine
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relate to: ‘nearology’ insomuch that all properties lie close to identified mineral anomalism, for example Palladium One’s RJ and Smoke Lake nickel projects are close to the FCM’s West Pickle Lake drill proven Ni-Cu project. This also demonstrates the second critical asset the properties hold: vector, anomalies, be they geological, geochemical, or geophysical that have demonstrated mineral potential extend on to FCM’s properties.
The inferred shear on the Esa property is being explored by neighbours both to the west and east where it crosses into their properties. Furthermore, the properties have not been extensively explored either historically or more contemporaneously . This is attributable to the overall lack of outcrop. However, modern exploration techniques are better able to ‘see through’ the ground cover and to identify anomalies.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company’s expectations, intentions and projections regarding its future performance, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements sometimes use words such as ‘aim’, ‘anticipate’, ‘target’, ‘expect’, ‘estimate’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘goal’, ‘believe’, or other words of similar meaning. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of such statements and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise
First Class Metals #FCM – Exclusivity Agreement for Lithium property Earn-In & Issue of Equity
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK metals exploration company seeking large scale metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo & Sunbeam land holding is pleased to announce that it has entered into an exclusivity agreement with a third party in respect to a Lithium project in Ontario.
Highlights
· Exclusivity Agreement signed giving sixty days exclusivity on a highly prospective, strategically located lithium project in Ontario.
· Premium fundraising from a private subscription of £300,000 to one single HNW resource sector investor at 16p per share.
Precise details of the agreement are covered by an NDA, however FCM can report the project is less than 100km from Armstrong in northwest Ontario in a district already proved to be prospective for hard rock, pegmatite hosted lithium.
A structure of over 800m has been identified and is wholly contained within the claim block, the lithium-tantalum mineralization is pegmatite-hosted with significant rubidium and cesium mineralization also reported. All of which are ‘critical minerals’ as identified by the Canadian Government and supported within the ‘Critical Minerals Strategy’ directive released by the Canadian Government on the 9th of December 20221.
Previous workers have identified Li2O and Ta2O5 mineralization along the entire length of the showing from sampling at surface, grading up to 1.68% Li2O (Lithium Oxide) over 7.9m and 0.168% Ta2O5 (Tantalum Oxide) over 2.54m in separate channels samples. Several shallow historic drill holes along the occurrence have returned significant intersections, including, (in separate drill holes) an intersection grading 1.08% Li2O over 6.1m and a separate intersection of 399.8ppm Ta2O5 over 2.92m. Both intersections were less than 20m down hole. The occurrence is open along strike and to depth and remains to be fully evaluated
FCM has a sixty day exclusive right to conclude negotiations and execute an Earn In deal, the salient points of which have already been established.
Marc Sale CEO commented:
“FCM is very encouraged with the opportunity to negotiate entry into this very prospective early-stage lithium prospect and in doing so will significantly augment the portfolio of critical minerals in our exploration focus.”
Fundraising & Issue of Equity
Alongside the lithium property exclusivity, FCM will place via a private subscription 1,875,000 ordinary shares at a price of 16p, raising £300,000 from a single HNW resource/battery metals investor. The subscription includes a one for one warrant totalling 1,875,000 warrants at 22p for a three-year period.
· Private subscription is at a 4% premium to the 5 VWAP day mid closing price from the previous week (5/12/2022-9/12/2022).
· All the subscription has been taken by one single HNW resource/battery metals focussed investor.
· The 16p issue represents a 60% premium to the IPO in late July 2022.
A further 300,000 new ordinary shares will be issued in lieu of outstanding professional advisor fees, who have elected to receive payment in shares.
The new ordinary shares will rank pari-passu with the Company’s existing issued ordinary shares. The Company intends to allot and issue these new ordinary shares under its existing authorities on a non-pre-emptive basis.
The Company will be making its application to admit the new ordinary shares to the Official List of the FCA and to trading on the Main Market (Standard List) of the LSE. Admission is expected to occur on 19th December 2022.
Conditional on Admission, the Company’s issued ordinary share capital will be 68,873,707 ordinary shares, which may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.
For further information, please contact:
First Class Metals PLC
|
James Knowles, Executive Chairman |
07488 362641 |
|
|
Marc J Sale, CEO |
07711 093532 |
|
|
Ayub Bodi, Executive Director |
07860 598086 |
First Equity Limited
(Financial Adviser & Broker) Jonathan Brown Jason Robertson 02073742212
First Class Metals PLC – Background
First Class Metals is focussed on exploration in Ontario, Canada which is considered a top global destination for exploration with a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. Specifically, the Hemlo ‘camp’ is a proven world class address for gold /VMS exploration. This geological terrane has significant production, both base / precious metals and a prolific number of exploration projects and numerous prospector’s showings.
FCM has commenced exploration programmes based on the detailed historical data review of available information on and around its seven claim blocks which comprise over 180km².
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company’s expectations, intentions and projections regarding its future performance, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements sometimes use words such as ‘aim’, ‘anticipate’, ‘target’, ‘expect’, ‘estimate’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘goal’, ‘believe’, or other words of similar meaning. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of such statements and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Links to External Sites
The document may contain links to other websites; these external websites are not under FCM’s control. FCM’s shall not be held responsible for such websites and do not make any warranties regarding the same. FCM’s do not endorse these websites in any manner.
#FCM First Class Metals – Exploration Program Update
First Class Metals PLC (“First Class Metals” “FCM” or the “Company”) the UK metals exploration company seeking large scale metal discoveries across its extensive Canadian Schreiber-Hemlo land holding is pleased to provide an update on activities during the first half of 2022 across its portfolio.
HIGHLIGHTS
– Ground exploration/reconnaissance work commenced across six of the seven properties.
– + 4000 line Km of helicopter borne low level VTEM magnetic survey flown over North Hemlo.
– Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) Grant award of $200,000CAD.
– Drilling commenced by earn in-JV partner Palladium One Inc at West Pickle Lake Nickel PGM target.
– Progression of key structural survey on the North Hemlo, Esa & Magical properties by Telluris Consulting.
-Full historical data review completed across all properties.
-Samples at the Laboratory assays pending for multiple rock-chip, soils/MMI sampling across six properties.
Properties
FCM holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 180km² along a 150km strike of the Hemlo-Schreiber-Dayohessarah greenstone belt which also contains the >23M oz shear hosted Hemlo gold mine operated by Barrick Gold.
The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relate to: ‘nearology’ insomuch that all properties lie close to identified mineral anomalism, for example Palladium One’s RJ and Smoke Lake nickel projects are close to the FCM’s West Pickle Lake soil / VTEM anomaly. This also demonstrates the second critical asset the properties hold: vector, anomalies, be they geological, geochemical or geophysical that have demonstrated mineral potential extend on to FCM’s properties. The West Pickle Lake prospects is believed to be an extension of the RJ Zone on to FCM’s claims.
Furthermore, the properties have not been extensively explored either historically or more contemporaneously . This is predominantly attributable to the overall lack of outcrop. However, modern exploration techniques are better able to ‘see through’ the ground cover and to identify anomalies.
FCM has initiated a concerted and will sustain a continued exploration programme on its seven properties which includes not only ground reconnaissance: traditional, time proven geological sampling but also airborne geophysical surveys. The ground-based exploration is further focussed by a structural interpretation undertaken by Tony Starling of Telluris Consulting which will be reported separately.
Dr Tony Starling is a world leading expert in the interpretation of structural targets identified by Remote Sensing with extensive experience in Archean settings similar to the ones we find in the Hemlo-Schreiber Greenstone Belt
FCM believes this study will identify potential structural trends in areas of overburden enabling exploration efforts to be more focussed and efficient.
North Hemlo-Flagship Property
The Flagship North Hemlo property was consolidated with the acquisition of the Hemlo North block from Power Metals Plc. and now contains 427 contiguous single cell mining claims covering approximately 90km², including the JV with Palladium One Inc over 33 claims covering the West Pickle Lake showing.
Two inferred shears have been identified crossing the property. There are several historical ‘showings’ considered to merit further exploration. Targets are not only base metals – nickel, but also several potential gold anomalies. Significantly the anomalous gold values are associated with molybdenum, highlighted at Dead Otter Lake where historic samples from a trench returned 3.10g/t Au and 0.59% molybdenum.
There are ongoing exploration activities on neighbouring blocks focussing on both gold and base metals, with those targets trending onto North Hemlo, including the West Pickle Lake (WPL) anomaly considered an extension of the RJ showing on Palladium One Inc.’s property, identified by a VTEM survey. WPL is under an earn in-JV with Palladium One who is currently drilling on the prospect.
FCM undertook a +4,000 line-km helicopter borne low level VTEM magnetic survey over the whole of the North Hemlo property, the data is currently being processed for interpretation.
FCM applied and have been successfully awarded an Ontario Junior Exploration Program (OJEP) Grant of $200,000CAD from the Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry Ontario in part contribution to the costs involved in this VTEM survey and exploration on the North Hemlo claim block.
FCM has had exploration teams on the ground at North Hemlo since May and over 350 rock and soil samples have been collected for analysis. Results pending.
Esa
The Esa property covers 20km² and is situated only 11km north of the Hemlo gold mine. A strong geophysical response dissecting the property has been in part ground-truthed and supports the interpreted presence of a shear, (also identified on adjacent properties to the west, trending on to Esa). The raw data from a previous VTEM survey has been acquired and will be reprocessed and interpreted This inferred shear across the property has formed the focus of field work to date with over 150 rock and soil samples collected for gold and base metal analysis, results pending.
Sugar Cube
Sugar Cube is the second largest property in the portfolio, covering 43km². the claim block is located immediately north west and contiguous to the extensive land package covering the Sugar Zone gold mine operated by Silver Lake Resources. Very little field work is reported to have been conducted over Sugar Cube area and the extensive ‘cover’ – gravels and muskeg, means that initial planned exploration method will involve an airborne geophysics survey in order to confirm the presence of greenstone style geology.
McKellar
The McKellar property is situated in prime geological location. As well as being adjacent to the Generation Mining’s Marathon Palladium Project, the property covering 11km² contains historical showings / samples for gold as well as silver as well as a diatreme with anomalous REE reported.
There are also a significant number of showings within the vicinity of McKellar, including the Prairie River West showing which returned 1.13g/t Au and 45g/t Ag, as well as the Marhill Prospect to the west with values up to 18.5g/t Ag. Importantly these showings are hosted in the mafic to intermediate metavolcanics which are identified in the western extension of the property: nearolgy and vector.
Historical exploration on the property includes not only the diatreme but a drill hole on the Gold Bar Lake prospect reporting over 1% Cu, 6% Zn as well as 0.5g/t Au and 60g/t Ag. Elsewhere on the property samples of 6,419ppm Mo (molybdenum) and 4,400 Zn are reported. Whilst the small scale historic Little Pic silver mine produced ‘ore’ containing variously 618g/t Ag and over 7% Pb and 32% Zn.
McKellar probably contains the most historic showings of the seven properties, however it is not consider ‘explored’ as the majority of the exploration conducted has been in the vicinity of these showings.
FCM has initiated exploration on the western sector of the property and to date has collected 89 rock samples, assays pending.
Magical
The Magical block of 14 claims, whilst only covering 3km² it is located northwest of the Hemlo gold mine and immediately east of the Hemlo Explorers Pic project recently optioned by Barrick the operators of Hemlo. There is a significant lack of historical exploration across the property, this is attributed to the overburden. Available geophysics indicates a mafic to intermediate volcanic unit strikes NE across the property and is constrained on both contacts by later plutons. Both to the south west and north east along the interpreted strike (off property) of the volcanic unit there are reported samples of 1.5g/t Au and 70g/t Ag as well as 10% Zn and almost 9% Pb. Importantly the ‘valley’ float sample of a mafic volcanic found only 600m north off property assayed 16.2g/t Au.
During an initial reconnaissance visit the FCM contracted geological team collected 12 rocks 56 MMI soils, final assays results pending
Enable
The Enable 41 claims block is also dissected by a geological feature striking north east which can be traced off property to historical showings. This geological contact between the Terrace Bay batholith ad mafic volcanics interspersed with concordant iron formations cut by quartz-feldspar porphyry dykes emanating from the batholith. Less than 2 kilometres off property, along this contact are the historic samples of Hays Lake with 9.64g/t Au and 20g/t Ag, probably from the Acker G vein contained in the north east trending (towards Enable) 3m wide shear zone. Also, to the south west is the ‘Joa Walton’ occurrence with 192.7g/t Au and 401g/t Ag. This trend where it crosses the property contains the historic Perch Lake West showing with a reported 1.85gh/t rock chip sample. During a brief reconnaissance a number of quartz veins were identified on the property and a total of 64 rock samples collected, assays pending.
Coco-East
The Coco East 30 claim block is the most western FCM property and is located about 10km east of the Metallum Resources recommissioned zinc mine. Importantly peripheral to the Coco property there are many historical showings, particularly in the western sector which contains the eastern extension of the Big Duck Lake porphyry, this geological unit has been and continues to be the focus of extensive exploration. Less than 3km to the west of the property the Coco Estelle deposit has a reported 53,700 tonnes grading 10.7g/t Au. The Big Birch showing which is on the property returned 0.56ppm Au and 2.8ppm Ag. An initial ground reconnaissance over part of the property in the area of the Big Birch showing collected 46 rock samples, final assay results pending.
Future Work Program
Continued exploration is planned across the seven properties. The basis of the autumn programmes will be not only follow up on the expected geochemical targets generated from the samples currently being analysed, but also on-going reconnaissance of the North Hemlo, Esa and possible McKellar blocks. This will be augmented with the interpretation of both the VTEM covering North Hemlo and Esa as well as a new survey on the Sugar Cube block of claims planned later in the year.
The company is currently in discussion with the First Nation groups with traditional land claims over the FCM properties with a view to submitting exploration permit applications to the Provincial Mining Authority. These permits, once approved will allow for ‘invasive’ exploration, including trenching and drilling. North Hemlo will be the primary focus.
Marc J. Sale CEO First Class Commented:
‘The recent successful listing of First Class Metals PLC in what are generally considered woeful market conditions is testimony to not only the management team but the quality of the assets: the claim portfolio created. We are as a team enthusiastic about the future given the historical data assimilation and encouraging exploration results (visual) to date.
We have hit the ground running hard, the activity in the first half of 2022 leading up to and past the IPO will set us off in a good state to deliver on our objective of developing the potential of these multiple highly prospective projects.
I look forward to reviewing and reporting on the number of programs and initiatives we have commenced which are currently ongoing in the coming weeks and months’.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
First Class Metals PLC
James Knowles, Executive Chairman 07488 362641
Marc Sale, Chief Executive Officer 07711 093532
Ayub Bodi, Executive Director 07860 598086
First Equity Limited (Financial Adviser & Broker ) 020 7374 2212
Jonathan Brown
Jason Robertson