To be sure. If we go back to the era from say 3000 to 1000 BC, we have thousands of tons too much copper in the Old World, and at the same time thousands of tons too much in the New (it WAS mined, but there were only very few and scattered populations in the New World anywhere, with no evidence they used copper to any extent).
It is now being whispered at last that it may have been shipped from the New World to the Old. If I live to be a 100, they may yet get to where I was when I was 15.
Too(little)in the New World.I agree.The Indians used their copper mostly as ceremonial decoration and status symbols,not the type things to be easily tossed away.Also,haven't a few pieces made of bronze been found in some of the mounds?I don't believe the Human Race is given enough credit for earlier accomplishments.Who in their right mind would spread word of treasure to their competition?I know I'd keep quiet about a new land rich for plucking and trade.