Inventories (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Inventory, Net [Abstract]
Metals in process	$ 195	$ 189
Gold on hand (dore/bullion)	95	94
Ore stockpiles	498	454
Uranium oxide and sulfuric acid	22	24
Supplies	317	296
Inventory Gross	1,127	1,057
Less: Materials on the leach pad	(92)	(98)
Net Short Term Inventories	1,035	959
Inventory, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Metals in process	438	393
Ore stockpiles	31	31
Inventory Gross Long Term	469	424
Less: Materials on the leach pad	(438)	(393)
Inventory, Noncurrent	$ 31	$ 31

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of by products held by the company that are readily available for sale.

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Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies held for future sale.

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Long-term carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of noncurrent ore stockpiles to be consumed in the production process.

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Long-term carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory which are partially completed, are generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, and which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods.

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This represents the non current portion of the ore stockpile material contained on the leach pad.

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Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods held by the company that are readily available for sale.

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Gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of merchandise, goods, commodities, or supplies held for future sale or to be used in manufacturing, servicing or production process.

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Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer).

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Inventories not expected to be converted to cash, sold or exchanged within the normal operating cycle.

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The carrying amount of ore stockpile material contained on a leach pad, such as copper or gold ore.

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Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of unprocessed items to be consumed in the manufacturing or production process.

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Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed, are generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, and which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods, and which generally require the use of estimates to determine percentage complete and pricing.

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Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of products used directly or indirectly in the manufacturing or production process, which may or may not become part of the final product. May also include items used in the storage, presentation or transportation of physical goods.

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