| Cover | Dec. 31, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-33190 |
| Entity Registrant Name | McEWEN MINING INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000314203 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 84-0796160 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | CO |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 150 King Street West |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2800 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Toronto |
| Entity Address, State or Province | ON |
| Entity Address, Country | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | M5H 1J9 |
| City Area Code | 866 |
| Local Phone Number | 441-0690 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | MUX |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
