Exhibit 15.1



July 20, 1999



Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.
1615 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA  70112


Gentlemen,

We are aware that Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. has incorporated
by reference in its Registration Statements (File Nos. 33-63271, 33-63269,
33-63267, 33-45787, 33-52503, 33-63376, and 333-02699) its Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended June 30, 1999, which includes our report dated July 20,
1999 covering the unaudited interim financial information contained
therein.  Pursuant to Regulation C of the Securities Act of 1933 (the Act),
this report is not considered a part of the registration statements
prepared or certified by our firm or a report prepared or certified by
our firm within the meaning of Sections 7 and 11 of the Act.


Very truly yours,


/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
Arthur Andersen LLP