Note 6. Business Segments (Detail) - Information About Reportable Segments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Net sales to unaffiliated customers:
Net sales to unaffiliated customers	$ 67,019	$ 117,860	$ 158,172	$ 254,224
Income (loss) from operations:
Income (loss) from operations	(2,481)	53,791	22,955	122,526
Greens Creek [Member]
Net sales to unaffiliated customers:
Net sales to unaffiliated customers	67,023	81,816	157,923	183,618
Income (loss) from operations:
Income (loss) from operations	23,313	45,054	70,695	103,563
Lucky Friday [Member]
Net sales to unaffiliated customers:
Net sales to unaffiliated customers	(4)	36,044	249	70,606
Income (loss) from operations:
Income (loss) from operations	(6,498)	20,596	(12,441)	40,508
Other Segment Income(Loss) [Member]
Income (loss) from operations:
Income (loss) from operations	$ (19,296)	$ (11,859)	$ (35,299)	$ (21,545)