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                                   EXHIBIT 16.01
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[PricewaterhouseCoopers Logo]



October 18, 2001




Securities and Exchange Commission
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20549

Commissioners:

We have read the statements made by Hecla Mining Company (copy
attached), which we understand will be filed with the Commission,
pursuant to Item 4 of Form 8-K, as part of the Company's Form 8-K
report dated October 12, 2001.  We agree with the statements
concerning our Firm in such Form 8-K.

Very truly yours,

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP