Vista Gold (VGZ) 10-K 22 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 10, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	VISTA GOLD CORP
Entity Central Index Key	783,324
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		97,786,608
Entity Public Float			$ 157,621,000
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 1,904	$ 902
Short-term investments (Note 3)	21,975	11,990
Other investments, at fair value (Note 3)	4,994	1,798
Other current assets	648	512
Total current assets	29,521	15,202
Non-current assets:
Mineral properties (Note 4)	3,874	3,874
Plant and equipment, net (Note 5)	8,213	8,792
Total non-current assets	12,087	12,666
Total assets	41,608	27,868
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	252	115
Accrued liabilities and other	481	688
Provision for environmental liability (Note 15)	350
Total current liabilities	1,083	803
Total liabilities	1,083	803
Commitments and contingencies – (Note 8)
Shareholders' equity:
Common shares, no par value - unlimited shares authorized; shares outstanding: 2016 - 97,786,608 and 2015 - 82,883,562 (Note 6)	455,443	438,900
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	15	(35)
Accumulated deficit	(414,933)	(411,800)
Total shareholders' equity	40,525	27,065
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 41,608	$ 27,868

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Shareholders' equity:
Common Shares, par value	$ 0	$ 0
Common shares outstanding	97,786,608	82,883,562

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME/(LOSS) AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME/(LOSS) AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS) [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Operating expense:
Exploration, property evaluation and holding costs	(4,303)	(4,265)	(3,991)
Corporate administration	(2,944)	(3,888)	(3,798)
Depreciation and amortization	(618)	(694)	(863)
Gain on disposal of mineral property, net (Note 4)	150	1,958
Write-down of mineral property (Note 4)			(750)
Write-down of Amayapampa interest (Note 9)			(4,813)
Write-down of value-added tax receivable		(572)
Total operating expense	(7,715)	(7,461)	(14,215)
Non-operating income/(expenses):
Gain on sale of marketable securities		12	24
Gain/(loss) on other investments (Note 3)	3,196	(1,593)	(4,112)
Write-down of marketable securities and long-term investments			(138)
Research and development grant, net (Note 10)	1,295	10,220
Interest income	57	31	10
Interest expense			(78)
Other income/(expense)	34	(198)	(417)
Total non-operating income/(expense)	4,582	8,472	(4,711)
Net income/(loss)	(3,133)	1,011	(18,926)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized fair value increase/(decrease) on available-for-sale securities	50	(46)	70
Comprehensive income/(loss)	$ (3,083)	$ 965	$ (18,856)
Basic:
Weighted average number of basic shares outstanding (in shares)	89,064,260	82,571,182	82,294,331
Net income/(loss) per share, Basic	$ (0.04)	$ 0.01	$ (0.23)
Diluted:
Weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding (in shares)	89,064,260	83,755,080	82,294,331
Net income/(loss) per share, Diluted	$ (0.04)	$ 0.01	$ (0.23)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Stock [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) [Member]	Total
Balances, beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 436,957	$ (393,885)	$ (59)	$ 43,013
Balances, beginning of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	82,275,217
Shares issued (RSUs vested/options exercised) (in shares)	115,000			115,000
Stock-based compensation	$ 1,126			$ 1,126
Other comprehensive income/(loss)			70	70
Net income/(loss)		(18,926)		(18,926)
Balances, end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 438,083	(412,811)	11	$ 25,283
Balances, end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014	82,390,217
Shares issued (RSUs vested/options exercised) (in shares)	493,345			493,345
Stock-based compensation	$ 817			$ 817
Other comprehensive income/(loss)			(46)	(46)
Net income/(loss)		1,011		1,011
Balances, end of period at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 438,900	(411,800)	(35)	27,065
Balances, end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015	82,883,562
Units issued (net of offering costs of $1,425)(Note 6)	$ 15,883			15,883
Units issued (net of offering costs of $1,425)(Note 6) (in shares)	12,362,500
Shares issued (RSUs vested/options exercised)	$ 15			$ 15
Shares issued (RSUs vested/options exercised) (in shares)	2,540,546			2,540,546
Stock-based compensation	$ 645			$ 645
Other comprehensive income/(loss)			50	50
Net income/(loss)		(3,133)		(3,133)
Balances, end of period at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 455,443	$ (414,933)	$ 15	$ 40,525
Balances, end of period (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016	97,786,608

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHA6

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (parenthetical) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Consolidated Statements Shareholders' Equity [Abstract]
Offering costs	$ 1,425

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income/(loss) for the period	$ (3,133)	$ 1,011	$ (18,926)
Adjustments to reconcile net income/(loss) for the period to net provided by/(cash used) in operations:
Depreciation and amortization	618	694	863
Stock-based compensation	645	817	1,126
Gain on disposal of marketable securities		(12)	(24)
Write-down of marketable securities and long-term investments			138
Gain on disposal of mineral property	(150)	(1,958)
Write-down of value-added tax receivable		572
Write-down of non-current assets			5,563
(Gain)/loss on other investments	(3,196)	1,593	4,112
Other non-cash items			(162)
Change in working capital account items:
Other current assets	(88)	316	492
Provision for environmental liability	350
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other	(70)	(24)	(240)
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities	(5,024)	3,009	(7,058)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities		41	60
Proceeds from sale of other investments, net		2,772	10,560
Acquisition of short-term investments, net of dispositions	(9,985)	(11,990)
Additions to plant and equipment	(37)	(134)	(7)
Proceeds from option/sales agreements, net	150	3,490	1,028
Net cash provided by/(used) in investing activities	(9,872)	(5,821)	11,641
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from equity financings, net	15,883
Repayment of debt			(6,344)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	15
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities	15,898		(6,344)
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	1,002	(2,812)	(1,761)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	902	3,714	5,475
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 1,904	$ 902	$ 3,714

Nature of Operations

Nature of Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Nature Of Operations [Abstract]
Nature Of Operations	1. Nature of Operations Vista Gold Corp. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Vista,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) operate in the gold mining industry. We are focused on the evaluation, acquisition, exploration and advancement of gold exploration and potential development projects, which may lead to gold production or value adding strategic transactions such as earn-in right agreements, option agreements, leases to third parties, joint venture arrangements with other mining companies, or outright sales of assets for cash and/or other consideration. We look for opportunities to improve the value of our gold projects through exploration drilling and/or technical studies focused on optimizing previous engineering work. Our principal asset is our flagship Mt Todd gold project (“Mt Todd”) in Northern Territory, Australia where we are concluding test work to optimize the process flowsheet, seeking approval of our final environmental authorization and commencing an update of our preliminary feasibility study. We also hold 4.4% of the outstanding common shares in the capital of Midas Gold Corp. (“Midas Gold Shares”), non-core projects in Mexico and the United States, and royalty interests in Indonesia.

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	2. Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Vista Gold Corp. and more-than-50%-owned subsidiaries that it controls and entities over which control is achieved through means other than voting rights. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”). Use of Estimates The preparation of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses during the reporting period. The more significant areas requiring the use of management estimates and assumptions are: the fair value and accounting treatment of financial instruments including marketable securities ; useful lives of assets for asset depreciation purposes; valuation allowances for deferred tax assets; the fair value and accounting treatment of stock-based compensation; the provision for environmental liabilities; and asset impairments (including impairments long-lived assets and investments). The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Accordingly, actual results will likely differ from the amounts estimated in these financial statements. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and government securities with maturities of three months or less when purchased. Because of the short maturity of these investments, the carrying amounts approximate their fair value. Foreign Currency Transactions Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions denominated in currency other than the functional currency are recorded at the approximate rate of exchange at the transaction date in other expense. For each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recorded insignificant net foreign currency gains/(losses). Short-term Investment Short-term investments consist of securities with original maturity dates greater than ninety days and less than one year. These securities are typically United States and Australian government treasury bills and/or notes. Australian dollar denominated treasury bills may result in currency risk associated with fluctuation in exchanges rates. Short-term investments are recorded at amortized cost and are classified as debt securities held-to-maturity as the Company has the intention and ability to hold these instruments until their original maturity date at the time of purchase. Mineral Properties Mineral property acquisition costs, including directly related costs, are capitalized when incurred, and mineral property exploration costs are expensed as incurred. When we determine that a mineral property can be economically developed in accordance with U.S. GAAP and SEC Industry Guide 7 reserves are established, the costs then incurred to develop such property will be capitalized. Capitalized costs will be depleted using the units-of-production method over the estimated life of the proven and probable reserves. If mineral properties are subsequently abandoned or impaired, any undepleted costs will be charged to loss in that period. The recoverability of the carrying values of our mineral properties is dependent upon economic reserves being discovered or developed on the properties, permitting, financing, start-up, and commercial production from, or the sale/lease of, or other strategic transactions related to these properties. Development and/or start-up of any of these projects will depend on, among other things, management’s ability to raise additional capital for these purposes. We assess the carrying cost of our mineral properties for impairment whenever information or circumstances indicate the potential for impairment. This would include events and circumstances such as our inability to obtain all the necessary permits, changes in the legal status of our mineral properties, government actions, the results of exploration activities and technical evaluations and changes in economic conditions, including the price of gold and other commodities or input prices. Such evaluations compare estimated future net cash flows with our carrying costs and future obligations on an undiscounted basis. If it is determined that the estimated future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the property, a write-down to the estimated fair value will then be reported in our Consolidated Statement of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) for the period. Where estimates of future net cash flows are not determinable and where other conditions indicate the potential for impairment, management uses available market information and/or third party valuation experts to assess if the carrying value can be recovered and to estimate fair value. Impairment Carrying values of long-lived assets, other than mineral properties, are evaluated for impairment at such time that information becomes available indicating that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If it is determined that the fair value is less than the carrying value an impairment charge equal to the difference between the fair value and the carrying value will be recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss). Stock-Based Compensation Under our stock option and long-term equity incentive plans, stock incentive options and restricted stock units may be granted to executives, employees, consultants and non-employee directors. Compensation expense for such grants is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) as a component of Exploration, property evaluation and holding costs and Corporate administration, with a corresponding increase to Common shares in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair values of the options are calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and forfeiture rates are based on historic trends and future projections, as appropriate. The fair value of restricted stock units is based on the closing price of our common shares on the grant date and forfeiture rates are based on historic trends and future projections, as appropriate. The expense is based on the fair values of the grant on the grant date and is recognized over the vesting period specified for each grant. Financial Instruments Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”) of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the level of independent, objective evidence surrounding the inputs used to measure fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. ASC 820 prioritizes the inputs into three levels that may be used to measure fair value: · Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. · Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. · Level 3 – Prices or valuation techniques requiring inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. Our financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, short-term investments, accounts payable and certain other current assets and liabilities. Due to the short-term nature of our cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts payable and certain other current assets and liabilities, we believe that their carrying amounts approximate fair value. Our marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale. Accordingly, these securities are carried at fair value, which is based upon quoted market prices in an active market and included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Our other investments, comprised of Midas Gold Shares, is accounted for using the fair value option based on quoted market prices in an active market and is included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Research and Development (“R&D”) Grants The Company has received Research and Development Tax Incentive payments from the Australian Government. Accounting practice generally refers to International Accounting Standard 20 “Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance” (“IAS 20”) to determine the most appropriate accounting for payments of this type. The Company’s activities in Australia do not generate revenue subject to Australian income tax. Consequently, under IAS 20, the R&D Tax Incentive payment is considered a government grant, as opposed to an income tax refund. Grants are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and that conditions attached to the grant have been met. Recent accounting pronouncements Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Accounting Standard Update 2016-09) In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance related to accounting for stock-based compensation which is intended to improve the accounting for employee share-based payments and which affects all organizations that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. Several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions are simplified, including: (a) income tax consequences; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. For public companies, the amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted for any organization in any interim or annual period. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we adopted this guidance which did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

Other Investments

Other Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments, All Other Investments [Abstract]
Other Investments	3. Other Investments Short-term investments As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the amortized cost basis of our short-term investments was $21,975 and $11,990, respectively. The amortized cost basis approximates fair value at December 31, 2016 and 2015. Short-term investments at December 31, 2016 are comprised of U.S. government treasury bills and/or notes, while short-term investments at December 31, 2015 were comprised of U.S. government and Australian treasury bills and/or notes, all of which have maturity dates greater than 90 days but less than one year. Other investments - Midas Gold Shares During February 2014, we sold 16,000,000 Midas Gold Shares at a price of C$0.80 ($0.73) per Midas Gold Share for net proceeds of $10,560 reducing the total of our Midas Gold Shares to 15,802,615 or approximately 11.2% of the outstanding Midas Gold Shares outstanding, on a non-dilutive basis, at that time . This sale resulted in a realized gain on other investments of $155 based on the realized value at the time of the sale compared to the fair value of the Midas Gold Shares at December 31, 2013, net of costs to sell. During March 2015, we sold 8,000,000 Midas Gold Shares, at a price of C$0.46 ($0.36) per Midas Gold Share, for net proceeds of $2,772, reducing the total Midas Gold Shares we own to 7,802,615 or approximately 4.4% of the Midas Gold Shares outstanding, on a non-dilutive basis. This sale resulted in a realized loss on other investments of $348 based on the realized value at the time of the sale compared to the fair value of the Midas Gold Shares at December 31, 2014, net of costs to sell . Upon initial recognition of its investment in the Midas Gold Shares, Vista elected to apply the fair value option, and as such, the investment is recorded at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Subsequent changes in fair value are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) in the period in which they occur. The following table summarizes our investment in Midas Gold Shares as at December 31, 2016 and 2015. December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Fair value at beginning of period $ $ Sale of Midas Gold Shares, net of costs to sell — Gain/(loss) during the period Fair value at end of period $ $ Midas Gold Shares held at the end of the period

Mineral Properties

Mineral Properties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Mineral Properties [Abstract]
Mineral Properties	4. Mineral Properties At December 31, 2016 At December 31, 2015 Mt Todd, Australia $ $ Guadalupe de los Reyes, Mexico $ $ Guadalupe de los Reyes During April 2014, Minera Gold Stake S.A. de C.V. (“MGS”), Vista’s wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into a definitive option agreement (the “Option Agreement”) to option a 70% interest in the Guadalupe de los Reyes gold/silver project in Sinaloa, Mexico to Great Panther Silver Limited (formerly Cangold Limited) (“Great Panther”) for consideration of $5,000 in five payments over a three-year period, with payments totaling $1,000 in the first year ($500 received in 2014 and $ 496 net of legal costs was received in March 2015 ) , $1,500 due in February 2016 (postponed from January 2016) and $2,500 due in January 2017. The Option Agreement provided that all cash payments are non-refundable and optional to Great Panther, and in the event Great Panther failed to pay any of the required amounts on the scheduled dates or failed to comply with its other obligations, the Option Agreement would terminate and Great Panther would have no interest in the Guadalupe de los Reyes gold/silver project. On February 25, 2016 Vista received notification from Great Panther that it was terminating the Option Agreement and the $1,500 option payment due in February 2016 was not made. Pursuant to the terms of the Option Agreement, Vista retains all amounts already paid by Great Panther and 100% of the Guadalupe de los Reyes gold/silver project. Although the termination of the Option Agreement indicates the potential for impairment of the carrying value of Guadalupe de los Reyes mineral property, our review has concluded that the $1,728 carrying value should not be impaired considering the quantity of mineral resources contained in the concessions, and the strategic value that these resources represent. Los Cardones In October 2013, we sold our 100% debt and equity participation in the Los Cardones gold project located in Baja California Sur, Mexico (“Los Cardones Sale”) to Invecture and RPG Structrued Finance S.a.R.L. (the “Purchasers”) for a total of $13,000 ($7,000 of which was paid in October 2013 and $6,000 was originally payable January 2014 (the “Subsequent Payment”) subject to the Purchasers’ option to elect to not make the Subsequent Payment). In 2014, the due date for the Subsequent Payment was extended to January 30, 2015 for additional consideration of $500. In October 2014, Invecture announced that the Los Cardones gold project, had been suspended because the conditions for its development were not favorable at that time, which introduced substantial doubt that the Subsequent Payment would be made. After making this announcement, there were no apparent significant favorable changes to incentivize Invecture to lift the suspension. In January 2015, we agreed to amend the payment terms (the “Amendment”) of the Los Cardones Sale. Under the Amendment, t he Company received a payment of $2,994 net of legal costs from the Purchasers as final payment for 100% of the Company’s interest in the project. This resulted in a realized gain of approximately $1,958. Long V alley We acquired the Long Valley gold project in 2003. During 2014, we completed a review of the permitting process and probable impediments to developing the project, and concluded that the permitting process could consume significant resources and last for a protracted period of time. Accordingly, we do not plan to advance this project in the foreseeable future. As a result, an impairment amount equal to the $750 carrying value has been included in our Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) for the year ended December 31, 2014. Utah Claims During 2016 we sold unpatented mining claims located in Utah for $150 and a 2% net smelter return royalty on any future production from said claims. This resulted in a realized gain of $150.

Plant And Equipment

Plant And Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Plant And Equipment	5. Plant and Equipment December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Accumulated Accumulated Cost depreciation Net Cost depreciation Net Mt Todd, Australia $ $ $ $ $ $ Guadalupe de los Reyes, Mexico Corporate, United States — Used mill equipment, Canada — — $ $ $ $ $ $ We continue to actively market the used mill equipment, however, we do not classify it as ‘held for sale’ on our balance sheet as of December 31, 2016 or 2015 as we do not have reasonable assurance that the mill equipment will sell within 12 months. We are not currently depreciating the used mill equipment as we continue to market it and it is not in use.

Common Shares

Common Shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Common Shares	6. Common Shares Public Offering, August 2016 During August 2016, we closed a public offering of 12,362,500 units (the “Units”), which included 1,612,500 Units issued pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option, for net proceeds of $15,883 (the “2016 Offering”). Each Unit consisted of one common share in the capital of the Company (“Common Share”) and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a “2016 Warrant”). A total of 6,514,625 2016 Warrants were issued, including 333,375 broker warrants issued to the underwriters. Each 2016 Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of $1.92 per Common Share (subject to adjustment in certain circumstances) and is exercisable for a period of 36 months from the closing of the 2016 Offering. The 2016 Warrants, which are classified as equity, had a fair value of $3,320 at the time of the 2016 Offering. The fair value of 2016 Warrants was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: 1) expected volatility of 89%, 2) risk-free rate of 0.86%, 3) expected life of 3 years, and 4) stock price on the issue date of $1.13 per Common Share. Other Share Issuances During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we issued 2,540,546, 493,345 and 115,000 common shares, respectively, in connection with the vesting of RSUs and/or stock option exercises. Warrants Warrant activity is summarized in the following table: Weighted Weighted average average Warrants exercise price remaining life outstanding per share (yrs.) Intrinsic value As of December 31, 2013 $ $ — Expired (issued as part of equity financing completed in 2012) As of December 31, 2014 $ $ — Expired (issued as part of equity financing completed in 2010) As of December 31, 2015 — $ — — $ — Issued — As of December 31, 2016 $ $ — Stock-Based Compensation Under our Stock Option Plan (the “Plan”) and our Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (the “LTIP”), we may grant options and/or RSUs or restricted stock awards to our directors, officers, employees and consultants. The combined maximum number of our Common Shares that may be reserved for issuance under the Plan and the LTIP is a variable number equal to 10% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Options and RSUs under the Plan and LTIP, respectively, are granted from time to time at the discretion of the Board, with vesting periods and other terms as determined by the Board. Stock-based compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Stock options $ $ $ Restricted stock units $ $ $ As of December 31, 2016, stock options and RSUs had unrecognized compensation expense of $39 and $582, respectively, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.23 and 1.4 years, respectively. Stock Options A summary of option activity under the Plan as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and changes during the period then ended is set forth in the following table: Weighted average Weighted average Aggregate Number of exercise price remaining intrinsic options per option contractual term value Outstanding - December 31, 2013 $ $ Granted — Cancelled/Forfeited — Expired — Outstanding - December 31, 2014 — Outstanding - December 31, 2015 — Granted — Exercised Expired — Outstanding - December 31, 2016 $ $ Exercisable - December 31, 2016 $ $ A summary of our unvested stock options as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and changes during the period then ended is set forth in the following table: Weighted Weighted average average remaining grant-date amortization Number of fair value period options per option (Years) Unvested - December 31, 2013 $ Granted Vested Unvested - December 31, 2014 Unvested - December 31, 2015 Granted Unvested - December 31, 2016 The fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2014 (no stock options were granted for the year ended December 31, 2015) to employees, directors and consultants was estimated at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Expected volatility % — % % Risk-free interest rate % — % % Expected life (years) — Dividend yield N/A — N/A Forfeiture assumption % — % % Option pricing models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected price volatility. Expected price volatility is based on the historical volatility of our common shares. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate. The expected term of the options granted represents the period of time that the options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free rate for the periods within the contractual term of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the date of grant. Restricted Stock Units The following table summarizes the RSU activity under the LTIP as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and changes during the years then ended: Weighted average Number grant-date fair of units value per unit Unvested - December 31, 2013 $ Cancelled/forfeited Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2014 $ Cancelled/forfeited Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2015 $ Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2016 $ A portion of the RSU awards vest on a fixed future date provided the recipient continues to be affiliated with Vista on that date. Other RSU awards vest subject to certain performance and market criteria, including the accomplishment of certain corporate objectives and the Company’s share price performance. The vesting period for all RSUs is at least one year. Weighted Average Common Shares At December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Basic common shares Effect of dilutive stock-based awards — — Diluted common shares Stock options to purchase 1,544,500 common shares , unvested RSUs representing 2,668, 387 common shares and 6,514,625 warrants were outstanding at December 31, 2016 but were not included in the computation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding because their effect would have been anti-dilutive. Stock options to purchase 2,257,500 common shares and unvested RSUs representing 2,901, 548 common shares were outstanding at December 31, 2015 but were not included in the computation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding because their effect would have been anti-dilutive. Stock options to purchase 2,257,500 common shares, unvested RSUs representing 3,692,829 common shares, and warrants to purchase 15,219,802 common shares were outstanding at December 31, 2014 but were not included in the computation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)	7. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) Accumulated Accumulated other comprehensive other comprehensive income/(loss), income/(loss) net of tax As of December 31, 2014 $ $ Other comprehensive loss due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period before reclassifications Reclassifications due to realization of gain on sale of marketable securities (1) As of December 31, 2015 $ $ Other comprehensive gain due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period As of December 31, 2016 $ $ (1) Reclassified to gain/(loss) on sale of marketable securities on the Consolidated Statement of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss).

Commitments And Contingencies

Commitments And Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	8. Commitments and Contingencies Our exploration and development activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. These laws and regulations are continually changing and are generally becoming more restrictive. As such, the future expenditures that may be required for compliance with these laws and regulations cannot be predicted. We conduct our operations to minimize effects on the environment and believe our operations are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations in all material respects. During May 2015, we settled a contract dispute for $295. Under ou r agreement with the Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation (the “JAAC”), we must offer the JAAC the opportunity to establish a joint venture with Vista holding 90% and the JAAC holding a 10% participating interest in Mt Todd. In addition, the JAAC will be entitled to an annual cash payment, or payment in kind, equal to 1% of the value of the annual gold production from the current mining licenses, and a 1% NSR royalty on other metals, subject to a minimum payment of A$50 per year. During November 2015, we entered into a two-year lease agreement to store our used mill equipment. Monthly rent for the term of the lease is C$18 ($13).

Amayapampa Interest

Amayapampa Interest	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract]
Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block]	9. Amayapampa Interest In December 2014, the owner of the Amayapampa gold project completed the sale of 100% of the project to a private investor. Accordingly, we evaluated the carrying value of our interest in Amayapampa, comprised of a right to receive an NSR royalty on future gold production, if any, plus certain additional cash payments if the project successfully starts commercial production. Given the frequency of ownership changes over the past several years, the conditions in gold market, and the political climate in Bolivia, we concluded that there was no more than a remote possibility that the Amayapampa project will be successfully developed and operated within the foreseeable future and that the asset was fully impaired, an impairment amount equal to the $4,813 carrying value was included in our Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) for the year ended December 31, 2014.

Research and Development Grant

Research and Development Grant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Research and Development Grant
Research and Development Grant	10. Research and Development Grant The Company received Research & Development (“R&D”) Tax Incentive refunds, net of costs to prepare and file, paid under the Australian Government’s R&D Tax Incentive Program, a program designed to encourage industry to engage in R&D activities that benefit Australia. These refunds are related to costs we incurred during the 2012 through 2015 fiscal years for qualifying R&D programs. The R&D Tax Incentive Program is a self-assessment process, and as such, the Australian Government has the right to audit the qualifying programs and expenditures for a period of four years. If such a review were to occur, and as a result of the review and failure of a related appeal a qualified program and related expenditures were disqualified, the respective R&D grant could be recalled with penalties and interest. As of December 31, 2016, the Australian Government has not requested a review.

Fair Value Accounting

Fair Value Accounting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value Accounting	11. Fair Value Accounting The following table sets forth the Company’s assets measured at fair value by level within the fair value hierarchy. As required by accounting guidance, assets are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Fair value at December 31, 2016 Total Level 1 Level 3 Marketable securities $ $ $ — Other investments (Midas Gold Shares) — Used mill equipment (non-recurring) — Fair value at December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 3 Marketable securities $ $ $ — Other investments (Midas Gold Shares) — Used mill equipment (non-recurring) — Our marketable securities and investment in Midas Gold Shares are classified as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy as they are valued at quoted market prices in an active market. Marketable securities are included in other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for each period presented. The mill equipment is classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as its value at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was based on an independent third party valuation. The mill equipment is included in plant and equipment on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for each period presented. There were no transfers between levels nor were there any changes in valuation methods in 2016.

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Material Non-Cash Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Material Non Cash Transactions [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Material NonCash Transactions	12. Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Material Non-Cash Transactions As of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, all of our cash was held in liquid bank deposits and/or government treasury bills in the Unites States and Australia. There were no significant non-cash transactions for the year ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014. During the years ended December 31, 2014, we paid interest associated with the 2013 Facility of $78.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	13. Income Taxes The Company’s U.S. and foreign source income/(loss) is as follows: Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ $ $ Canada Other Foreign $ $ $ During the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company has recognized ‘nil’ current and deferred income tax expense or benefit in each of the US, Canadian, and other foreign jurisdictions, due to full valuation allowances within each jurisdiction. Rate Reconciliation A reconciliation of the combined income taxes at the statutory rates and the Company’s effective income tax benefit is as follows: Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Income taxed at statutory rates $ $ $ Increase (decrease) in taxes from: Stock-based compensation Other adjustments Adjustment due to capital transactions — R&D grant — Prior year provision to actual adjustments Differences in tax rates Effect of foreign exchange Expiration of NOLs - Change in valuation allowance Income tax (benefit)/expense $ — $ — $ — Deferred Taxes Deferred income taxes reflect the net effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The significant components of our deferred tax assets and liabilities as at December 31 are as follows: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Deferred income tax assets Excess tax basis over book basis of property, plant and equipment $ $ $ Marketable securities Operating loss carryforwards Capital loss carryforwards Other Total future tax assets Valuation allowance for future tax assets Deferred income tax liabilities Other investments Amayapampa disposal consideration — — Total Deferred Taxes $ — $ — $ — Valuation Allowance on Canadian and Foreign Tax Assets We establish a valuation allowance against the future income tax assets if, based on available information, it is more likely than not that all of the assets will not be realized. The valuation allowance of $50,209, $50, 816 , and $54,397 at December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, relates mainly to net operating loss carryforwards, in Canada and other foreign tax jurisdictions, where the utilization of such attributes is not more likely than not. The Company continually assesses both positive and negative evidence to determine whether it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets can be realized prior to their expiration. Loss Carryforwards The Company has available income tax losses of $67, 822 , which may be carried forward and applied against future taxable income when earned. The losses expire as follows: Noncapital U.S. Mexico Barbados Total 2016 $ — $ — $ — $ $ 2017 — — — 2018 — — — 2019 — — — 2020 — — — 2021 — — — 2022 — — 2023 — — 2024 — — — 2025 — — — 2026 — — — 2027 — — 2028 — — 2029 — — 2030 — — 2031 — — 2032 — — 2033 — — 2034 — — 2035 — 2036 — $ $ $ $ $ (1) Canadian capital loss carryforwards of $55,367 and Australian NOLs of $25,909, which do not expire and are therefore not included above. During 2016, an income tax benefit and the corresponding valuation allowance of $ 370 related to share-issuance cost was recorded directly to equity. Accounting for uncertainty in taxes Accounting Standards Codification Topic 740 guidance requires that the Company evaluate all income tax positions taken, and recognize a liability for any uncertain tax positions that are not more likely than not to be sustained by the tax authorities. As of December 31, 2016, the Company believes it has no liability for unrecognized tax positions. If the Company were to determine there were any uncertain tax positions, the Company would recognize the liability and related interest and penalties within income tax expense. Tax statute of limitations The Company files income tax returns in Canada, U.S. federal and state jurisdictions and other foreign jurisdictions. There are currently no tax examinations underway for these jurisdictions. Furthermore, the Company is no longer subject to Canadian tax examinations by the Canadian Revenue Authority for years ended on or before December 31, 2013 or U.S. federal income tax examinations by the Internal Revenue Service for years ended on or before December 31, 2013. Some U.S. state and other foreign jurisdictions are still subject for tax examination for years ended on or before December 31, 2012. Although certain tax years are closed under the statute of limitations, tax authorities can still adjust losses being carried forward into open years.

Geographic And Segment Informat

Geographic And Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Geographic And Segment information [Abstract]
Geographic And Segment Information	14. Geographic and Segment information The Company has one reportable operating segment, consisting of evaluation, acquisition, and exploration activities. We evaluate, acquire, explore and advance gold exploration and potential development projects, which may lead to gold production or value adding strategic transactions. These activities are currently focused principally in Australia. We reported no revenues during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Geographic location of mineral properties and plant and equipment is provided in Notes 4 and 5, respectively.

Provision for Environmental Lia

Provision for Environmental Liability	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract]
Provision for Environmental Liability	15. Provision for Environmental Liability The Province of British Columbia Ministry of Energy and Mines (“MEM”) has requested that the Company prepare and present to MEM a reclamation plan for closure and abandonment of certain mining claims in British Columbia which the Company had disposed of in 1996. Assuming no other potentially responsible parties are identified and based on preliminary estimates of the reclamation costs, we have accrued $350 on an undiscounted basis, which has been included in Exploration, property evaluation and holding costs. It is possible that this estimate may change.

Significant Accounting Polici23

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Vista Gold Corp. and more-than-50%-owned subsidiaries that it controls and entities over which control is achieved through means other than voting rights. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses during the reporting period. The more significant areas requiring the use of management estimates and assumptions are: the fair value and accounting treatment of financial instruments including marketable securities ; useful lives of assets for asset depreciation purposes; valuation allowances for deferred tax assets; the fair value and accounting treatment of stock-based compensation; the provision for environmental liabilities; and asset impairments (including impairments long-lived assets and investments). The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Accordingly, actual results will likely differ from the amounts estimated in these financial statements.
Cash and cash equivalents	Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and government securities with maturities of three months or less when purchased. Because of the short maturity of these investments, the carrying amounts approximate their fair value.
Foreign Currency Translations	Foreign Currency Transactions Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions denominated in currency other than the functional currency are recorded at the approximate rate of exchange at the transaction date in other expense. For each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we recorded insignificant net foreign currency gains/(losses).
Short-term Investment	Short-term Investment Short-term investments consist of securities with original maturity dates greater than ninety days and less than one year. These securities are typically United States and Australian government treasury bills and/or notes. Australian dollar denominated treasury bills may result in currency risk associated with fluctuation in exchanges rates. Short-term investments are recorded at amortized cost and are classified as debt securities held-to-maturity as the Company has the intention and ability to hold these instruments until their original maturity date at the time of purchase.
Mineral Properties	Mineral Properties Mineral property acquisition costs, including directly related costs, are capitalized when incurred, and mineral property exploration costs are expensed as incurred. When we determine that a mineral property can be economically developed in accordance with U.S. GAAP and SEC Industry Guide 7 reserves are established, the costs then incurred to develop such property will be capitalized. Capitalized costs will be depleted using the units-of-production method over the estimated life of the proven and probable reserves. If mineral properties are subsequently abandoned or impaired, any undepleted costs will be charged to loss in that period. The recoverability of the carrying values of our mineral properties is dependent upon economic reserves being discovered or developed on the properties, permitting, financing, start-up, and commercial production from, or the sale/lease of, or other strategic transactions related to these properties. Development and/or start-up of any of these projects will depend on, among other things, management’s ability to raise additional capital for these purposes. We assess the carrying cost of our mineral properties for impairment whenever information or circumstances indicate the potential for impairment. This would include events and circumstances such as our inability to obtain all the necessary permits, changes in the legal status of our mineral properties, government actions, the results of exploration activities and technical evaluations and changes in economic conditions, including the price of gold and other commodities or input prices. Such evaluations compare estimated future net cash flows with our carrying costs and future obligations on an undiscounted basis. If it is determined that the estimated future undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the property, a write-down to the estimated fair value will then be reported in our Consolidated Statement of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) for the period. Where estimates of future net cash flows are not determinable and where other conditions indicate the potential for impairment, management uses available market information and/or third party valuation experts to assess if the carrying value can be recovered and to estimate fair value.
Impairment	Impairment Carrying values of long-lived assets, other than mineral properties, are evaluated for impairment at such time that information becomes available indicating that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If it is determined that the fair value is less than the carrying value an impairment charge equal to the difference between the fair value and the carrying value will be recorded in our Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss).
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Under our stock option and long-term equity incentive plans, stock incentive options and restricted stock units may be granted to executives, employees, consultants and non-employee directors. Compensation expense for such grants is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss) as a component of Exploration, property evaluation and holding costs and Corporate administration, with a corresponding increase to Common shares in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The fair values of the options are calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and forfeiture rates are based on historic trends and future projections, as appropriate. The fair value of restricted stock units is based on the closing price of our common shares on the grant date and forfeiture rates are based on historic trends and future projections, as appropriate. The expense is based on the fair values of the grant on the grant date and is recognized over the vesting period specified for each grant.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”) of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the level of independent, objective evidence surrounding the inputs used to measure fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. ASC 820 prioritizes the inputs into three levels that may be used to measure fair value: · Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. · Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. · Level 3 – Prices or valuation techniques requiring inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. Our financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, short-term investments, accounts payable and certain other current assets and liabilities. Due to the short-term nature of our cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts payable and certain other current assets and liabilities, we believe that their carrying amounts approximate fair value. Our marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale. Accordingly, these securities are carried at fair value, which is based upon quoted market prices in an active market and included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Our other investments, comprised of Midas Gold Shares, is accounted for using the fair value option based on quoted market prices in an active market and is included in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
Research and Development (“R&D”) Grants	Research and Development (“R&D”) Grants The Company has received Research and Development Tax Incentive payments from the Australian Government. Accounting practice generally refers to International Accounting Standard 20 “Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance” (“IAS 20”) to determine the most appropriate accounting for payments of this type. The Company’s activities in Australia do not generate revenue subject to Australian income tax. Consequently, under IAS 20, the R&D Tax Incentive payment is considered a government grant, as opposed to an income tax refund. Grants are recognized when there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and that conditions attached to the grant have been met.
Recent accounting pronouncements	Recent accounting pronouncements Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (Accounting Standard Update 2016-09) In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued guidance related to accounting for stock-based compensation which is intended to improve the accounting for employee share-based payments and which affects all organizations that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. Several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions are simplified, including: (a) income tax consequences; (b) classification of awards as either equity or liabilities; and (c) classification on the statement of cash flows. For public companies, the amendments are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted for any organization in any interim or annual period. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we adopted this guidance which did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

Other Investments (Tables)

Other Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments, All Other Investments [Abstract]
Schedule Of Summary Of Investments	December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Fair value at beginning of period $ $ Sale of Midas Gold Shares, net of costs to sell — Gain/(loss) during the period Fair value at end of period $ $ Midas Gold Shares held at the end of the period

Mineral Properties (Tables)

Mineral Properties (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Mineral Properties [Abstract]
Schedule of Mineral Properties	At December 31, 2016 At December 31, 2015 Mt Todd, Australia $ $ Guadalupe de los Reyes, Mexico $ $

Plant And Equipment (Tables)

Plant And Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule Of Plant And Equipment	December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Accumulated Accumulated Cost depreciation Net Cost depreciation Net Mt Todd, Australia $ $ $ $ $ $ Guadalupe de los Reyes, Mexico Corporate, United States — Used mill equipment, Canada — — $ $ $ $ $ $ W

Common Shares (Tables)

Common Shares (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Summary Of Warrant Activity	Weighted Weighted average average Warrants exercise price remaining life outstanding per share (yrs.) Intrinsic value As of December 31, 2013 $ $ — Expired (issued as part of equity financing completed in 2012) As of December 31, 2014 $ $ — Expired (issued as part of equity financing completed in 2010) As of December 31, 2015 — $ — — $ — Issued — As of December 31, 2016 $ $ —
Summary of Stock-based Compensation Expense	Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Stock options $ $ $ Restricted stock units $ $ $
Summary Of Option Activity	Weighted average Weighted average Aggregate Number of exercise price remaining intrinsic options per option contractual term value Outstanding - December 31, 2013 $ $ Granted — Cancelled/Forfeited — Expired — Outstanding - December 31, 2014 — Outstanding - December 31, 2015 — Granted — Exercised Expired — Outstanding - December 31, 2016 $ $ Exercisable - December 31, 2016 $ $
Summary Of The Status Of Unvested Stock Options	Weighted Weighted average average remaining grant-date amortization Number of fair value period options per option (Years) Unvested - December 31, 2013 $ Granted Vested Unvested - December 31, 2014 Unvested - December 31, 2015 Granted Unvested - December 31, 2016
Schedule of Share Based Payments Valuation Assumptions	Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Expected volatility % — % % Risk-free interest rate % — % % Expected life (years) — Dividend yield N/A — N/A Forfeiture assumption % — % %
Summary Of Restricted Stock Units Activity	Weighted average Number grant-date fair of units value per unit Unvested - December 31, 2013 $ Cancelled/forfeited Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2014 $ Cancelled/forfeited Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2015 $ Vested Granted Unvested - December 31, 2016 $
Weighted Average Common Shares (Table)	At December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Basic common shares Effect of dilutive stock-based awards — — Diluted common shares

Accumulated Other Comprehensi28

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Reconciliation Of Amounts Contained In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Accumulated Accumulated other comprehensive other comprehensive income/(loss), income/(loss) net of tax As of December 31, 2014 $ $ Other comprehensive loss due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period before reclassifications Reclassifications due to realization of gain on sale of marketable securities (1) As of December 31, 2015 $ $ Other comprehensive gain due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period As of December 31, 2016 $ $ (1) Reclassified to gain/(loss) on sale of marketable securities on the Consolidated Statement of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss).

Fair Value Accounting (Tables)

Fair Value Accounting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Accounting [Abstract]
Delete -Fair Value Accounting	Fair value at December 31, 2016 Total Level 1 Level 3 Marketable securities $ $ $ — Other investments (Midas Gold Shares) — Used mill equipment (non-recurring) — Fair value at December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 3 Marketable securities $ $ $ — Other investments (Midas Gold Shares) — Used mill equipment (non-recurring) —

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Schedule of income/(loss) before income tax, domestic and foreign	Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ $ $ Canada Other Foreign $ $ $
Schedule of effective income tax rate reconciliation	Years ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Income taxed at statutory rates $ $ $ Increase (decrease) in taxes from: Stock-based compensation Other adjustments Adjustment due to capital transactions — R&D grant — Prior year provision to actual adjustments Differences in tax rates Effect of foreign exchange Expiration of NOLs - Change in valuation allowance Income tax (benefit)/expense $ — $ — $ —
Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities	December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Deferred income tax assets Excess tax basis over book basis of property, plant and equipment $ $ $ Marketable securities Operating loss carryforwards Capital loss carryforwards Other Total future tax assets Valuation allowance for future tax assets Deferred income tax liabilities Other investments Amayapampa disposal consideration — — Total Deferred Taxes $ — $ — $ —
Summary of expiring loss carryforwards	Noncapital U.S. Mexico Barbados Total 2016 $ — $ — $ — $ $ 2017 — — — 2018 — — — 2019 — — — 2020 — — — 2021 — — — 2022 — — 2023 — — 2024 — — — 2025 — — — 2026 — — — 2027 — — 2028 — — 2029 — — 2030 — — 2031 — — 2032 — — 2033 — — 2034 — — 2035 — 2036 — $ $ $ $ $ (1) Canadian capital loss carryforwards of $55,367 and Australian NOLs of $25,909, which do not expire and are therefore not included above.

Nature of Operations (Details)

Nature of Operations (Details)	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2014
Midas Gold Shares [Member]
Holding percentage	4.40%	4.40%	11.20%

Other Investments (Details)

Other Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Short-term investments
Short-term investments amortized cost basis	$ 21,975	$ 11,990

Other Investments (Midas Gold)

Other Investments (Midas Gold) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016shares	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015CAD / sharesshares	Mar. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares	Feb. 28, 2014CAD / sharesshares	Feb. 28, 2014$ / sharesshares
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of other investments, net				$ 2,772	$ 10,560
Midas Gold Corp [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Realized gain (loss) on other investments					$ (348)	$ 155
Midas Gold Shares [Member]
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of shares sold | shares							8,000,000	8,000,000	16,000,000	16,000,000
Sale of shares (dollars per share) | (per share)							CAD 0.46	$ 0.36	CAD 0.80	$ 0.73
Proceeds from sale of other investments, net		$ 2,772	$ 10,560	$ 2,772
Shares owned | shares	7,802,615			7,802,615			7,802,615	7,802,615	15,802,615	15,802,615
Holding percentage	4.40%	4.40%	11.20%

Other Investments (Summary) (De

Other Investments (Summary) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Sale of Midas Gold Shares, net of costs to sell				$ (2,772)	$ (10,560)
Gain/(loss) during the period			$ 3,196	(1,593)	(4,112)
Midas Gold Shares [Member]
Fair value at beginning of period			1,798	6,163
Sale of Midas Gold Shares, net of costs to sell	$ (2,772)	$ (10,560)		(2,772)
Gain/(loss) during the period			3,196	(1,593)
Fair value at end of period			$ 4,994	$ 1,798	$ 6,163
Midas Gold Shares held at end of the period	7,802,615	15,802,615	7,802,615	7,802,615

Mineral Properties (Properties)

Mineral Properties (Properties) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Mineral Properties, Net	$ 3,874	$ 3,874
Mt Todd, Australia [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Mineral Properties, Net	2,146	2,146
Guadalupe De Los Reyes, Mexico [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Mineral Properties, Net	$ 1,728	$ 1,728

Mineral Properties (GDLR) (Deta

Mineral Properties (GDLR) (Details) - Guadalupe De Los Reyes, Mexico [Member] $ in Thousands	Feb. 25, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2014USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Percentage of interest owned	100.00%
Option Agreement [Member] | Great Panther Silver Limited [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Percentage of interest in joint venture to be returned upon election not to make payment			70.00%
Sale price of gold project			$ 5,000
Number of payments | item			5
Period of payment			3 years
First Year [Member] | Option Agreement [Member] | Great Panther Silver Limited [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Sale price of gold project			$ 1,000
Proceeds from sale of gold project				$ 500
Proceeds from sale of gold project, net of legal costs		$ 496
Second Year [Member] | Option Agreement [Member] | Great Panther Silver Limited [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Sale price of gold project			1,500
Amount of payment not made	$ 1,500
Third Year [Member] | Option Agreement [Member] | Great Panther Silver Limited [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Sale price of gold project			$ 2,500

Mineral Properties (LosCardones

Mineral Properties (LosCardones) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2015	Oct. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gain on disposal of mineral property, net			$ 150	$ 1,958
Los Cardones Sale [Member] | Sold
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Percentage of interest sold	100.00%	100.00%
Sale price of gold project		$ 13,000
Proceeds from sale of gold project		7,000
Proceeds from sale of gold project, net of legal costs	$ 2,994
Additional consideration received					$ 500
Future proceeds		$ 6,000
Gain on disposal of mineral property, net				$ 1,958

Mineral Properties (Long Valley

Mineral Properties (Long Valley) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Mineral Properties [Abstract]
Write-down of mineral property	$ 750

Mineral Properties (Utah) (Deta

Mineral Properties (Utah) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gain on disposal of mineral property, net	$ 150	$ 1,958
Utah Sale [Member] | Sold
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of gold project	$ 150
Net smelter return royalty (as a percent)	2.00%
Gain on disposal of mineral property, net	$ 150

Plant And Equipment (Details)

Plant And Equipment (Details) $ in Thousands	24 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	$ 12,501	$ 12,537
Accumulated depreciation and write downs	4,288	3,745
Net	8,213	8,792
Mt Todd, Australia [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	5,654	5,617
Accumulated depreciation and write downs	3,944	3,346
Net	1,710	2,271
Guadalupe De Los Reyes, Mexico [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	14	17
Accumulated depreciation and write downs	11	9
Net	3	8
Corporate, United States [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	333	403
Accumulated depreciation and write downs	333	390
Net		13
Used mill equipment, Canada [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cost	6,500	6,500
Net	$ 6,500	$ 6,500
Number of months to be considered held-for-sale | item	12

Common Shares (Public Offering)

Common Shares (Public Offering) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2016USD ($)item$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2014$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2013$ / shares
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of units issued	12,362,500
Proceeds from issuance of common shares | $	$ 15,883	$ 15,883
Number of common shares in each unit | item	1
Number of common shares to purchase each warrant	0.50
Over-Allotment Option
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of units issued	1,612,500
Warrants
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Number of common shares purchased for each warrant	1
Issued (in shares)	6,514,625	6,514,625
Exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.92	$ 1.92	$ 5	$ 4.63
Period warrants are exercisable	36 months
Fair value of warrants | $	$ 3,320
Expected volatility (as a percent)		89.00%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)		0.86%
Expected term (in years)		3 years
Share price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.13
Warrants | Over-Allotment Option
Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Line Items]
Issued (in shares)	333,375

Common Shares (Other Share Issu

Common Shares (Other Share Issuances) (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Shares issued (RSUs vested/options exercised) (in shares)	2,540,546	493,345	115,000

Common Shares (Warrants) (Detai

Common Shares (Warrants) (Details) - Warrants - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Warrants outstanding, beginning of period (in shares)			15,219,802	19,977,743
Warrants expired (in shares)			(15,219,802)	(4,757,941)
Issued (in shares)	6,514,625	6,514,625
Warrants outstanding, end of period (in shares)		6,514,625		15,219,802	19,977,743
Weighted average exercise price of warrants outstanding (in dollars per share)	$ 1.92	$ 1.92		$ 5	$ 4.63
Weighted average exercise price per share of warrants issued (in dollars per share)		$ 1.92
Weighted average remaining life, warrants outstanding		2 years 7 months 6 days		9 months 18 days	1 year 7 months 6 days
Weighted average remaining life, warrants issued		2 years 7 months 6 days

Common Shares (Summary Of the F

Common Shares (Summary Of the Fair Value Of All Awards issued Under Stock Compensation Plans) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Percentage of issued and outstanding Common Shares	10.00%
Stock-based expense	$ 645	$ 817	$ 1,126
Employee, Directors and Consultants Stock Options [Member]
Stock-based expense	23	8	160
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Stock-based expense	$ 622	$ 809	$ 966

Common Shares (Unrecognized com

Common Shares (Unrecognized compensation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee, Directors and Consultants Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options	$ 39
Weighted average compensation recognition period	1 year 2 months 23 days	4 years 11 months 27 days
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested awards	$ 582
Weighted average compensation recognition period	1 year 4 months 24 days

Common Shares (Summary Of Optio

Common Shares (Summary Of Option Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Number of options, beginning of period (in shares)	2,257,500	2,257,500	2,882,500
Granted, Number of options (in shares)	50,000		175,000
Number of options, Cancelled/Forfeited (in shares)			(125,000)
Number of options, Exercised (in shares)	(65,500)
Number of options, Expired (in shares)	(697,500)		(675,000)
Number of options, end of period (in shares)	1,544,500	2,257,500	2,257,500	2,882,500
Number of options, Exercisable (in shares)	1,248,250
Weighted average exercise price per option, beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 1.60	$ 1.60	$ 1.79
Weighted average exercise price per option, Granted (in dollars per share)	1.11		0.52
Weighted average exercise price per option, Cancelled/Forfeited (in dollars per share)			3.16
Weighted average exercise price per option, Exercised (in dollars per share)	0.39
Weighted average exercise price per option, Expired (in dollars per share)	2.91		1.85
Weighted average exercise price per option, end of period (in dollars per share)	1.05	$ 1.60	$ 1.60	$ 1.79
Weighted average exercise price, Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 1.18
Weighted average remaining contractual term, Outstanding	1 year 9 months 15 days	2 years 7 days	3 years 7 days	3 years 26 days
Weighted average remaining contractual term, Exercisable	1 year 7 months 21 days
Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars)			$ 54
Aggregate intrinsic value, Exercised (in dollars)	$ 42
Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding, end of period (in dollars)	626			$ 54
Aggregate intrinsic value, Options, Exercisable	$ 480

Common Shares (Summary Of The S

Common Shares (Summary Of The Status Of Unvested Stock Options) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Unvested, Number of options, beginning of period (in shares)	246,250	246,250	738,750
Granted, Number of options (in shares)	50,000		175,000
Vested, Number of options (in shares)			(667,500)
Unvested, Number of options, end of period (in shares)	296,250	246,250	246,250	738,750
Unvested, Weighted average grant date fair value, beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 0.22	$ 0.22	$ 0.22
Granted, Weighted average grant-date fair value per option (in dollars per share)	0.69		0.30
Vested, Weighted average grant-date fair value per option (in dollars per share)			0.24
Unvested, Weighted average grant date fair value per option, end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 0.49	$ 0.22	$ 0.22	$ 0.22
Employee, Directors and Consultants Stock Options [Member]
Granted, Number of options (in shares)		0
Weighted average remaining amortization period	1 year 2 months 23 days			4 years 11 months 27 days

Common Shares (Assumptions ) (D

Common Shares (Assumptions ) (Details) - Employee, Directors and Consultants Stock Options [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility (as a percent)	77.68%	69.17%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	1.12%	1.75%
Expected life (years)	5 years	5 years
Forfeiture assumption (as a percent)	0.00%	10.00%

Common Shares (Summary Of Restr

Common Shares (Summary Of Restricted Stock Units Activity) (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested, Number of units, beginning of period (in shares)	4,085,446	3,692,829	2,594,464
Cancelled/forfeited, Number of units (in shares)		(841,038)	(865,635)
Vested, Number of units (in shares)	(2,475,046)	(493,345)	(115,000)
Granted, Number of units (in shares)	1,057,987	1,727,000	2,079,000
Unvested, Number of units, end of period (in shares)	2,668,387	4,085,446	3,692,829
Unvested, weighted average fair value, beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 0.44	$ 0.74	$ 2
Cancelled/forfeited, Weighted average fair value (in dollars per share)		0.73	3.42
Vested, Weighted average fair value (in dollars per share)	0.32	1.62	3.84
Granted, Weighted average fair value (in dollars per share)	0.84	0.27	0.46
Unvested, weighted average fair value, end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 0.49	$ 0.44	$ 0.74
Vesting period	1 year

Common Shares (Weighted Average

Common Shares (Weighted Average) (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Basic Common Shares	89,064,260	82,571,182	82,294,331
Effect of dilutive stock-based awards		1,183,898
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted, Total	89,064,260	83,755,080	82,294,331

Common Shares (Anti-dilutive) (

Common Shares (Anti-dilutive) (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee, Directors and Consultants Stock Options [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive shares outstanding	1,544,500	2,257,500	2,257,500
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive shares outstanding	2,668,387	2,901,548	3,692,829
Warrants
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Anti-dilutive shares outstanding	6,514,625		15,219,802

Accumulated Other Comprehensi52

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)
Balances, beginning of period	$ 27,065	$ 25,283
Balances, end of period	40,525	27,065
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) net of tax
Balances, beginning of period	27,065	25,283
Balances, end of period	40,525	27,065
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)
Balances, beginning of period	(35)	11
Balances, end of period	15	(35)
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) net of tax
Balances, beginning of period	(35)	11
Balances, end of period	15	(35)
Accumulated due to realization of gain/(loss) on marketable securities [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)
Other comprehensive loss due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period before reclassifications	50	(34)
Reclassifications		(12)
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) net of tax
Other comprehensive loss due to change in fair market value of marketable securities during period before reclassifications	43	(29)
Reclassifications		(10)
Accumulated other comprehensive income after tax [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)
Balances, beginning of period	(29)	10
Balances, end of period	14	(29)
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) net of tax
Balances, beginning of period	(29)	10
Balances, end of period	$ 14	$ (29)

Commitments And Contingencies (

Commitments And Contingencies (Details) CAD in Thousands, AUD in Thousands, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2015CAD	Nov. 30, 2015USD ($)	May 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016AUD
Contract dispute settlement | $			$ 295
Used mill equipment, Canada [Member]
Term of lease	2 years	2 years
Monthly rental payment	CAD 18	$ 13
Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent				90.00%
Percentage of royalty on gold				1.00%
Percentage of royalty on other metals				1.00%
Minimum payment per year | AUD				AUD 50
Mt Todd, Australia [Member] | Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation [Member]
Percentage of participating interest in gold project by affiliate				10.00%

Amayapampa Interest (Details)

Amayapampa Interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Write-down of asset		$ 4,813
Amayapampa Bolivia [Member]
Percentage of project sold by owner	100.00%
Write-down of asset		$ 4,813

Research and Development Grant

Research and Development Grant (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Research and Development Grant
Period for review of program	4 years

Fair Value Accounting (Details)

Fair Value Accounting (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value Transfers Between Levels	$ 0
Recurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	109	$ 61
Other investments (Midas Gold Shares)	4,994	1,798
Recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Marketable securities	109	61
Other investments (Midas Gold Shares)	4,994	1,798
Non-recurring [Member] | Used mill equipment, Canada [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equipment	6,500	6,500
Non-recurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Used mill equipment, Canada [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Equipment	$ 6,500	$ 6,500

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform57

Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Material Non-Cash Transactions (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Two Thousand Thirteen Facility [Member]
Interest Paid	$ 78

Income Taxes (Sources of Income

Income Taxes (Sources of Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net income/(loss)	$ (3,133)	$ 1,011	$ (18,926)
U.S. [Member]
Net income/(loss)	1,219	(3,297)	(6,705)
Canada [Member]
Net income/(loss)	(1,395)	(121)	(7,750)
Other Foreign [Member]
Net income/(loss)	$ (2,957)	$ 4,429	$ (4,471)

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Expe

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
U.S. [Member]
Current income tax expense (benefit)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	0	0	0
Canada [Member]
Current income tax expense (benefit)	0	0	0
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	0	0	0
Other Foreign [Member]
Current income tax expense (benefit)	0	0	0
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes (Rate Reconciliati

Income Taxes (Rate Reconciliation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
Income taxed at statutory rates	$ (1,226)	$ 392	$ (7,314)
Stock-based compensation	(382)	32	41
Other adjustments	15	27	5
Adjustments due to capital transactions		(119)
R&D grant	5,936	5,366
Prior year provision to actual adjustments	(4,269)	(2,894)	(4,511)
Differences in tax rates	524	(368)	541
Effect of foreign exchange	379	350	276
Expiration of NOLs		231	189
Change in valuation allowance	$ (977)	$ (3,017)	$ 10,773

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Asse

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Assets/Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]
Excess tax basis over book basis of property, plant, and equipment	$ 7,773	$ 7,785	$ 7,893
Marketable securities	713	862	798
Operating loss carryforwards	27,943	26,464	35,001
Capital loss carryforwards	13,469	13,463	10,212
Other	1,783	2,725	2,891
Total future tax assets	51,681	51,299	56,795
Valuation allowance for future tax assets	(50,209)	(50,816)	(54,397)
Total income tax assets	1,472	483	2,398
Other investments	1,472	483	1,916
Amayapampa disposal consideration			482
Total deferred income tax liabilities	$ 1,472	$ 483	$ 2,398

Income Taxes (Operating Loss Ca

Income Taxes (Operating Loss Carryforward Expirations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating loss carryforwards	$ (67,822)
Total	67,822
Equity component for share-issuance cost deduction	(382)	$ 32	$ 41
Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(43,399)
Capital loss carryforwards	55,367
Equity component for share-issuance cost deduction	370
U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(18,455)
Mexico [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(5,813)
Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(155)
Australia [Member]
Operating loss carryforwards	(25,909)
Tax Year 2016 [Member]
Total	2
Tax Year 2016 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(2)
Tax Year 2017 [Member]
Total	1
Tax Year 2017 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(1)
Tax Year 2018 [Member]
Total	6
Tax Year 2018 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(6)
Tax Year 2019 [Member]
Total	20
Tax Year 2019 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(20)
Tax Year 2020[Member]
Total	42
Tax Year 2020[Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(42)
Tax Year 2021 [Member]
Total	20
Tax Year 2021 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(20)
Tax Year 2022 [Member]
Total	5,542
Tax Year 2022 [Member] | Mexico [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(5,511)
Tax Year 2022 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(31)
Tax Year 2023 [Member]
Total	325
Tax Year 2023 [Member] | Mexico [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(302)
Tax Year 2023 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(23)
Tax Year 2024 [Member]
Total	4
Tax Year 2024 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(4)
Tax Year 2025 [Member]
Total	6
Tax Year 2025 [Member] | Barbados [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(6)
Tax Year 2026 [Member]
Total	1,027
Tax Year 2026 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(1,027)
Tax Year 2027 [Member]
Total	2,134
Tax Year 2027 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(847)
Tax Year 2027 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(1,287)
Tax Year 2028 [Member]
Total	6,964
Tax Year 2028 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(5,245)
Tax Year 2028 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(1,719)
Tax Year 2029 [Member]
Total	5,992
Tax Year 2029 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(4,022)
Tax Year 2029 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(1,970)
Tax Year 2030 [Member]
Total	6,859
Tax Year 2030 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(5,032)
Tax Year 2030 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(1,827)
Tax Year 2031 [Member]
Total	7,213
Tax Year 2031 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(3,806)
Tax Year 2031 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(3,407)
Tax Year 2032 [Member]
Total	8,720
Tax Year 2032 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(6,397)
Tax Year 2032 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(2,323)
Tax Year 2033 [Member]
Total	9,174
Tax Year 2033 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(6,076)
Tax Year 2033 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(3,098)
Tax Year 2034 [Member]
Total	7,244
Tax Year 2034 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(4,420)
Tax Year 2034 [Member] | U.S. [Member]
Expiring net operating loss carryforwards	(2,824)
Tax year 2035 [Member]
Total	3,729
Tax year 2035 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	(3,729)
Tax Year 2036 [Member]
Total	2,798
Tax Year 2036 [Member] | Canada [Member]
Expiring noncapital loss carryforwards	$ (2,798)

Income Taxes (Uncertainty) (Det

Income Taxes (Uncertainty) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax positions	$ 0

Geographic And Segment Inform64

Geographic And Segment Information (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Geographic And Segment information [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | segment	1
Revenues | $	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Provision for Environmental L65

Provision for Environmental Liability (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract]
Provision for environmental liability	$ 350