Note 8. Employee Benefit Plans (Detail) - Reconciliation Of Level 3 Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Hecla [Member]
Balance	$ 12,508	$ 11,027
Net unrealized gains on assets held at the reporting date	391	1,237
Purchases	401	244
Balance	13,300	12,508
Lucky Friday [Member]
Balance	3,356	2,947
Net unrealized gains on assets held at the reporting date	104	330
Purchases	106	79
Balance	$ 3,566	$ 3,356