Evidence Of Hypogene Enrichment At Hercules Property

TORONTO - Hercules Metals Corp. reported on an independent study, focused on the high-grade enrichment zone at the Hercules Property in western Idaho. The study presents evidence that Leviathan's shallow enrichment zone formed through a hypogene process known as "telescoping", in which epithermal fluids overprinted and upgraded earlier porphyry mineralization. Unlike supergene enrichment, which is limited to narrow blankets of near-surface weathering, telescoping implies significantly greater scale and grade potential. The upcoming drill campaign will therefore focus on targeting the shallower levels of the system, where the porphyry and epithermal systems are believed to overlap.

Telescoping of hypogene enrichment, occurs when a porphyry system is rapidly uplifted into a shallower high-sulfidation epithermal environment. Microscopic examination of Leviathan's enrichment zone reveals an assemblage of bornite-chalcocite-digenite-covellite-pyrite, with strong quartz-muscovite and trace advanced argillic alteration, consistent with a high-sulfidation epithermal upgrade (hypogene enrichment). Vectoring towards thicker zones of hypogene enrichment requires a clear understanding of the structural evolution. While rapid uplift can enhance enrichment, it also heightens the risk of erosion. Preservation is highest where enrichment zones become quickly down-dropped and buried after their formation.

The Leviathan district was tilted and potentially down-dropped to the north-northwest, suggesting potential for enhanced preservation under cover in that direction. The 2025 drill campaign is designed to test the newly developed geological model (outlined in a recent press release) which highlights potential for southeast dipping feeder structures, along which the enrichment may root far deeper than previously appreciated.

Despite being truncated by a supergene leach cap, no significant supergene enrichment is apparent. Intense phyllic alteration and near-complete feldspar destruction, supressed formation of a supergene enrichment blanket beneath the leach cap. However, the presence of native copper in the leach cap of two adjacent drill holes offers a compelling vector for a potential exotic copper deposit.

Chris Paul, CEO and Director, said, “The report provides us with important insight into the origin and preservation of high-grade hypogene enrichment, significantly influencing our exploration strategy moving forward. Combined with input from the new 3D geological model, and the acquisition of a strategic mineral lease in areas of enhanced preservation potential, we're now able to start directly testing for zones of thicker hypogene enrichment."