Note 11. Business Segments and Significant Customers (Detail) - Percentage Of Sales By Segment	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Percentage Of Sales From Continuing Operations	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Greens Creek [Member]
Percentage Of Sales From Continuing Operations	71.80%	74.80%	73.40%
Lucky Friday [Member]
Percentage Of Sales From Continuing Operations	28.20%	25.20%	26.60%