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UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended      September 30, 2003       

OR

  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934  

For the transition period from               to              

Commission file number   0-17480

 

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Washington
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

84-1097086
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.

     
 

4251 Kipling St. Suite 390, Wheat Ridge, CO
(Address of principal executive offices)

80033
(Zip Code)

     
 

(303) 534-1030
Registrant's telephone number, including area code

 

 

          Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES

[X]

 

NO

[  ]

Indicated by checkmark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

YES

[  ]

 

NO

[X]

          Indicate by checkmark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports to be filed by Section 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court.

YES

[X]

 

NO

[  ]

          There were 16,788,957 shares of $0.01 par value common stock outstanding as of November 10, 2003.

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

PART 1 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Page

   

Item 1    Consolidated Financial Statements

3

   

Item 2    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial

 

               Condition and Results of Operations

13

   

Item 3    Quantitative and Qualitative Discussions about Market Risk

19

   

Item 4    Controls and Procedures

19

   

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 
   

Item 1    Legal Proceedings

20

   

Item 2    Changes in Securities

20

   

Item 3    Defaults Upon Senior Securities

20

   

Item 4    Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

20

   

Item 5    Other Information

20

   

Item 6    Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

20

   

SIGNATURES

21

   

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

22

 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

(in thousands, except

   September 30,

December 31,

share amounts)

   2003

2002

                                                                     Assets

   

Current assets:

   

  Cash and cash equivalents

$  2,423 

$   1,033 

  Restricted short-term investments

112 

79 

  Marketable equity securities at fair value

240 

170 

  Prepaid expenses and other

     59 

     103 

    Total current assets

2,834 

1,385 

Mineral properties, net

15,689 

14,980 

Other assets:

   

  Equity in unconsolidated subsidiary

2,513 

2,800 

  Other

       69 

       68 

     Total other assets

  2,582 

  2,868 

 

$21,105 

$19,233 

     

                                              Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

   

Current liabilities:

   

  Accounts payable

$     126 

$      287 

  Current portion of long-term debt

51 

70 

  Accrued interest payable

     260 

     203 

Total current liabilities

437 

560 

Long-term liabilities:

   

  Convertible senior notes payable, net of discounts

181 

83 

  Convertible senior notes payable, related party, net of discounts

73 

34 

  Convertible secured notes payable, net of discount

1,002 

847 

  Convertible subordinated notes payable

4,000 

4,000 

  Convertible subordinated series B notes payable related party

400 

-   

  Convertible subordinated series B notes payable

2,305 

-   

  Long-term note payable

98 

97 

  Deferred taxes

  1,643 

  2,975 

Total long-term liabilities

9,702 

8,036 

Stockholders' equity:

   

  Preferred stock, $0.01 par value: authorized 40,000,000 shares,

     none outstanding

-   

-   

  Common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 100,000,000 shares,

     issued and outstanding, 5,639,048 and 3,851,162 at September 30,

     2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

56 

39 

  Additional paid-in capital

43,382 

39,541 

  Deferred compensation

   (1,232)

   (293)

  Accumulated deficit

(31,283)

(28,709)

  Accumulated other comprehensive income

         43 

       59 

Total stockholders' equity

10,966 

10,637 

 

$21,105 

$19,233 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

(in thousands, except per

Three months ended

Nine months ended

  share amounts)

         September 30,       

          September 30,         

 

   2003   

   2002   

   2003   

   2002   

Revenues:

       

Gain on sale of assets and mineral properties

$       -  

$    171 

$     -  

$    171 

  Interest income

        6 

      20 

     19 

     30 

   Total Revenues

        6 

    191 

     19 

   201 

Costs and expenses:

       

Exploration expense

  Depreciation, depletion and amortization

11 

  General and administrative

165 

96 

454 

287

  General and administrative, variable option compensation

848

-

1,453

-

  Interest expense

694 

314 

1,803 

679 

  Other

       54 

       -   

       -   

       -   

     Total costs and expenses

  1,767 

    414 

 3,724 

    973 

Operating loss

(1,761)

(223)

(3,705)

(772)

Equity in loss of unconsolidated subsidiary

     (91)

   (182)

   (193)

   (558)

Loss before reorganization costs

(1,852)

(405)

(3,898)

(1,330)

Reorganization costs

       -   

    21 

       -   

    391 

Loss before income taxes and extraordinary item

(1,852)

(426)

(3,898)

(1,721)

Income tax benefit

     629 

    144 

 1,324 

    207 

Loss before extraordinary item

(1,223)

(282)

(2,574)

(1,514)

Gain on discharge of convertible debentures

   net of deferred tax

        -   

      -   

       -   

 6,924 

Net income (loss)

$ (1,223)

$  (282)

$(2,574)

$ 5,410 

Basic and diluted net loss per common and common

       

   equivalent share before extraordinary item

$   (0.22)

$ (0.09)

$  (0.52)

$  (0.49) 

Extraordinary item

         -   

      -   

        -   

   2.26 

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per common

       

   and common equivalent share

$   (0.22)

$ (0.09)

$  (0.52)

$    1.77 

Weighted average number of common and

       

   common equivalent shares outstanding

5,533 

 3,243 

 4,918 

 3,060 

 

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(in thousands)

   Nine months ended September 30,

 

   2003   

            2002   

Operating activities:

   

Net income (loss)

$(2,574)

$ 5,410 

Adjustments:

   

  Depreciation, depletion, and amortization

11 

  Common stock issued for interest

1,453 

189

  Amortization of note discounts

292 

128 

  Gain on asset sales

-   

(171)

  Equity in loss of unconsolidated subsidiary

193 

557 

  Variable stock option compensation

1,453 

-   

  Deferred income taxes

(1,324)

(207)

  Extraordinary gain on discharge of convertible debentures

-   

(6,924)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

   

  Prepaid expenses and other current assets

44 

(3)

  Accounts payable and other current liabilities

 (104)

   264 

        Net cash used in operating activities

 (556)

  (752)

     

Investing activities:

   

 Increase in other assets

(12)

(3)

 Additions to mineral properties

 (709)

   (180)

        Net cash used in investing activities

 (721)

   (183)

     

Financing activities:

   

 Payment on long-term debt

(18)

(20)

 Payment on discharge of convertible debentures

-   

(1,000)

 Cash released from senior notes escrow

-   

3,284 

 Common stock issued for cash

13 

-   

 Payment of restricted cash

(33)

-   

 Issuance of convertible subordinated series B notes

 2,705 

      -   

        Net cash provided by financing activities

 2,667 

 2,264 

     

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

1,390 

1,329

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 1,033 

    110 

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$ 2,423 

$ 1,439

     

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

   

  Non-cash issuance of securities on discharge of
    convertible debentures:

   

      Secured notes payable

-   

2,000 

      Subordinated notes payable

-   

4,000 

      Fair value of warrants

-   

286 

  Securities received in payment for sale of mineral
    property

-   

171 

     

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

          1.     Accounting Policies

General

          The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Crown Resources Corporation ("CRC") and its subsidiaries (collectively "Crown") for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 are unaudited, but in the opinion of management, include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring items, necessary for a fair presentation. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved in the future.

          These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto which are included in Crown's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. The accounting policies set forth in those annual financial statements are the same as the accounting policies utilized in the preparation of these financial statements, except as modified for appropriate interim financial statement presentation.

Recent developments

          On October 8, 2003 Crown announced the signing of a letter of intent (the "LOI") with Kinross Gold Corporation of Toronto, Ontario Canada ("Kinross"), whereby Kinross would acquire 100% of Crown. Under the terms of the LOI, shareholders of Crown Resources will receive 0.2911 shares of Kinross for each share of Crown. Assuming all of Crown's warrants are exercised on a cashless basis at the market price of Crown on October 8, 2003 and convertible debentures are converted, a total of approximately 13.1 million common shares of Kinross will be issued upon the completion of the transaction. The transaction is subject to the execution of a definitive agreement and completion of other documentation, respective board and regulatory approvals, the successful completion of due diligence and a minimum two-thirds approval at a special meeting of Crown shareholders. Prior to the completion of the acquisition, Crown would dividend to i ts shareholder s the approximate 37.8% equity interest in Solitario Resources Corporation (TSX-SLR) held by Crown.

          On October 31, 2003 and November 5, 2003 a total $839,331 of Subordinated Notes were converted into 1,119,108 shares of common stock. On November 5, 2003 the remaining $3,160,669 of Subordinated Notes were automatically converted into 4,214,225 shares of common stock. Also on November 5, 2003, $2,705,000 of Subordinated B Notes were automatically converted into 3,606,667 shares of common stock. The automatic conversions were in accordance with the provisions of the Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes whereby the Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock trades above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

          In April 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149 "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS No. 149") to provide, amend and clarify financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. The changes in this statement improve financial reporting by requiring that contracts with comparable characteristics be accounted for similarly to achieve more consistent reporting of contracts as either derivative or hybrid instruments. SFAS No. 149 has been adopted by Crown and will be applied prospectively for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003. The adoption of this statement has not had a material effect on Crown's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

          In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150 "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity" ("SFAS No. 150") which clarifies the classification as liabilities for certain financial instruments including equity shares that are mandatorily redeemable, or a financial instrument other than equity shares that has an obligation to repurchase the instrument with equity shares, including a conditional obligation to settle the financial instrument with equity shares. SFAS No. 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into after May 31, 2003. The adoption of this statement, on July 1, 2003, has not had a material effect on Crown's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

          The Emerging Issues Task Force is in the process of forming a committee to evaluate certain mining industry accounting issues, including issues arising from the implementation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 to business combinations within the mining industry and accounting for goodwill and other intangibles. Although such committee has not yet been formed, and no formal agenda has been set, the issues related to the business combinations within the mining industry and accounting for goodwill and other intangibles may be addressed along with the related question of whether mineral interests conveyed by leases represent tangible or intangible assets and the amortization of such assets. While Crown believes that its accounting for its mineral interests conveyed by leases is in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, Crown cannot predict whether the deliberations of this committee will ultimately modify or otherwise result in new accounting standards or interpretations thereof that differ from its current practices.

Accounting for Stock Based Compensation

          Crown accounts for certain awards under the Crown Resources Corporation 2002 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2002 Plan") as variable in accordance with SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, Transition and Disclosure" and Accounting Principles Board Opinion No, 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," ("APB 25"). Under the terms of the 2002 Plan, the exercise price of options issued to employees and directors equals the market price of the stock on the date of grant. Crown previously had a 1988 Stock Benefit Plan (the "1988 Plan") and a 1991 Stock Incentive Plan (the "1991 Plan"). As a result of repricing options under Crown's 1988 Plan and the 1991 Plan in 1998 and 1999, Crown began to account for those options grants using variable plan accounting as of July 2000. The Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") filed in connection with Crown's bankruptcy in 2002 (see Note 2 below) rejected both the 1991 Plan and t he 1988 Plan and all option awards were canceled. The Plan of Reorganization approved the 2002 Plan. In July 2002 Crown's Board of Directors granted 3,375,000 options under the 2002 Plan. Of these, 2,600,000 were deemed replacement options for cancelled options awards with variable plan accounting. Accordingly, Crown accounts for increases and decreases in the intrinsic value of the 2,600,000 options as compensation expense in accordance with APB 25. Crown recorded compensation expense of $848,000 and $1,453,000, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003 related to the intrinsic value of these option awards. There was no compensation expense related to options during the corresponding periods of 2002. As of September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, Crown had recorded $1,251,000 and $293,000, respectively, of deferred compensation expense related to the intrinsic value of these variable plan accounting options.

          Crown computes pro forma information as if Crown had accounted for its stock options under the fair value method of SFAS No. 148 and SFAS No. 123. There were no option awards granted, modified or settled during the second quarter of 2003 or 2002. The following pro forma information is provided for the fair values of options outstanding during these periods.

 

       For the three months       ended September 30,

 For the nine months ended September 30,

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

        2003

        2002

   2003

     2002

Net income (loss) as reported

$(1,223)

$(282) 

$(2,574)

$5,410 

Add: Stock-based compensation expense included in
    reported net income (loss) , net of related tax effects

559 

-   

959 

-   

Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation
    expense determined under fair value based method for
    all awards, net of related tax effects

 (38)

 (32)

  (102)

 (190)

Pro forma net loss

$  (702)

$(314)

$(1,717)

$5,220

Basic and diluted net loss per share:

       

   As reported

$ (0.22)

$(0.09)

$  (0.52)

$  1.77

   Pro forma

$ (0.13)

$(0.10)

$  (0.35)

$  1.71

Net Loss Per Common Share

          The loss per share is presented in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 128, Earnings Per Share ("EPS"). Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the income or loss available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock. Basic and diluted EPS were the same for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 because the Company had losses from operations and therefore, the effect of all potential common stocks was anti-dilutive.

          Stock options, warrants outstanding and their equivalents are included in diluted EPS computations through the "treasury stock method" unless they are antidilutive. Convertible securities are included in diluted EPS computations through the "if converted" method unless they are antidilutive. Common share equivalents are excluded from the computations in loss periods, as their effect would be antidilutive.  As of September 30, 2003 Crown had notes convertible into 25,140,000 common shares and warrants which could be exercised for 16,200,000 common shares and stock options which could be exercised for 3,400,000 shares or a total of 44,740,000 equivalent dilutive securities that have been excluded from the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the diluted net loss per share computations, as they are antidilutive.

          2.     Corporate Reorganization

          On March 8, 2002, CRC filed a voluntary petition for protection under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the "Bankruptcy") in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado (the "Court"). As part of the Bankruptcy CRC filed a Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") and a Disclosure Statement with the Court on March 27, 2002. On May 30, 2002, the Court confirmed the Plan, which became effective on June 11, 2002 (the "Effective Date"). As part of the Plan, CRC restructured its existing $15 million 5.75% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due August 2001 (the "Debentures"). The restructuring was completed through an exchange of outstanding Debentures, including any accrued interest thereon for the following consideration, which are being proportionally distributed to each Debenture holder:

(i)           $1,000,000 in cash;

(ii)          $2,000,000 in 10% Convertible Secured Notes (the "Secured Notes") convertible into Crown common shares at $0.35 per share. The Secured Notes are pari-passu to and have essentially the same terms as the Senior Notes, discussed below, including a 10% interest rate payable in cash or common stock at CRC's option, and a maturity date of October 2006. The number of shares of common stock paid for interest, will be calculated based on the stated interest rate for the period divided by the conversion price of $0.35 per share.

(iii)          Warrants, which entitle the holders the right to purchase, in the aggregate, 5,714,285 shares of CRC common stock at an exercise price of $0.75 per share. The warrants expire in October 2006;

(iv)          $4,000,000 of convertible unsecured subordinated notes (the "Subordinated Notes") convertible into common stock of CRC at $0.75 per share. The Unsecured Notes pay interest at 10% in stock or cash at CRC's option, and mature on the same date as the Secured Notes. The number of shares of common stock paid for interest, will be calculated based the stated interest rate for the period divided by the conversion price of $0.75 per share.

          In order to effect the Plan on the Effective Date, Crown entered into a Custody and Disbursing Agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, Minnesota N.A. (the "Disbursing Agent") as well as trust indentures with Deutsche Bank Trust Company, Americas, as Trustee on the Secured Notes and with Wells Fargo Bank Minnesota, N.A. as Trustee on the Subordinated Notes. Crown also transferred $1 million to the Disbursing Agent on the Effective Date. As of September 30, 2003, the Disbursing Agent had issued $925,000 in cash, $1,851,000 in Secured Notes, $3,701,000 in Subordinated Notes (including any accrued and paid interest from June 11, 2002) and Warrants entitling the holders of such Warrants to purchase 5,288,000 shares of CRC common stock to Debenture holders who had presented $13,880,000 in Debenture certificates. As of September 30, 2003, $1,120,000 in Debenture certificates had not been presented. Pending presentation of these $1,120,000 i n Debenture certificates to the Disbursing Agent, all interest due on any undistributed Secured and Subordinated Notes is paid to the Disbursing Agent for the benefit of any Debenture holders who subsequently tender their certificates. The Debenture holders have until June 2007 to present their certificates, at which time any undistributed cash, notes or warrants will revert to Crown.

          The Plan provided that all other liabilities of CRC and Crown would be paid in the normal course.

          As part of the Plan Crown recorded a one-for-five reverse split on the Effective Date of the currently outstanding common stock, while maintaining the conversion and exercise prices of the Senior Notes, the Secured Notes, the Unsecured Notes and the related warrants. Under the Plan, any shareholder holding less than 500 shares prior to the one-for-five reverse split received no distribution. The Plan also provided for the cancellation of Crown's existing Preferred Stock, held by a wholly-owned subsidiary, which had previously been eliminated in consolidation. The Plan also approved the 2002 Stock Incentive Plan (the "2002 Plan") as of the Effective Date. The 2002 Plan provides for the Board of Directors to issue stock option grants for a maximum of 5 million shares. The Board of Directors may make grants of options to employees, consultants and members of Crown's Board of Directors.

          As part of the Plan, Crown filed Restated Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Washington.

          While the Plan resulted in a change in ownership of greater than fifty percent, the reorganization value of the assets of Crown immediately before the Effective Date was greater than the total of all post-petition liabilities and allowed claims. As a result, Crown did not adopt fresh start reporting and continues to recognize its historical basis of accounting.

          3.     Long Term Debt

Senior Notes

          In October 2001 Crown issued $3,600,000 of 10% convertible secured promissory notes due in October 2006 (the "Senior Notes"). Crown used $1,000,000 of the proceeds to pay the cash component of the Debenture restructuring discussed in Note 2 above. Crown used the remaining proceeds to initiate permitting on its Buckhorn Mtn. Project (formerly called the Crown Jewel Project) in the state of Washington and for general corporate purposes. The Senior Notes are secured by all of the assets of Crown on a pari-passu basis with the Secured Notes. The assets consist primarily of Crown's interest in the Buckhorn Mtn. Project and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Crown Resource Corp. of Colorado, whose assets consist primarily of a 41.2% equity interest in Solitario Resources Corporation ("Solitario").

          The Senior Notes have a five-year term and carry a 10% interest rate, payable quarterly in cash or Crown common stock at the conversion prices of $0.35 and $0.2916 per share at the election of Crown. Originally, proceeds of $3,250,000 from the Senior Notes were placed in escrow pending restructuring of the Debentures (the specific Senior Notes related to the proceeds placed in escrow are also referred to as "Escrowed Notes"). Solitario invested $650,000 in these Escrowed Notes. The Escrowed Notes are convertible into Crown common shares at a conversion price of $0.35 per share, subject to adjustment. In addition, the Escrowed Note holders have been issued a five-year warrant for every share into which the Escrowed Notes are convertible, which warrant will be exercisable into a Crown common share at $0.75 per share, subject to adjustment. Solitario also invested in a separate Senior Note, (referred to as the "Solitario Note") for the remaining $350,000 of the Senior Notes. These funds were made immediately available to Crown for general corporate purposes. The Solitario Note is convertible into Crown common shares at a conversion price of $0.2916 per share, subject to adjustment. In addition, Solitario has been issued a five-year warrant to acquire 1,200,000 shares of Crown common stock at $0.60 per share, subject to adjustment. The terms of the Solitario Note and the related warrant are otherwise identical to the terms of the Escrowed Notes and warrants.

          On October 19, 2001, the warrants described above had an estimated value of $379,000, which was recorded as a discount to the Senior Notes and credited to additional paid-in capital. This warrant discount will be amortized over the life of the Senior Notes and charged as interest expense. See Interest below.

          Under generally accepted accounting principals, any intrinsic value of the conversion feature (market price of the stock less the effective conversion price) of the Senior Notes must also be recorded as a discount to the Senior Notes. At October 19, 2001, there was no intrinsic value associated with the conversion feature of the Senior Notes and no discount was recorded thereon. However, when the Bankruptcy Court approved the Plan on May 30, 2002, the terms of the Senior Notes were effectively changed, since the conversion price remained unchanged despite the one-for-five reverse split required by the Plan. Based upon these revised terms, the intrinsic value of the conversion feature of the Senior Notes as of their issuance date was $3,221,000. Effective May 30, 2002, this amount was recorded as a discount to the Senior Notes and credited to additional paid-in capital. This conversion feature discount is being amortized over the remaining life of the Senior Notes as of May 30, 2002 and charged as interest expense. See Interest below.

 

          A summary of the Senior Notes

September 30, 2003

December 31, 2002

 


Related
Party
Notes


Other
Senior
Notes

Total
Senior
Notes
Payable

Total
Senior
Notes
Payable

Face amount of Senior Notes

$1,000,000 

$ 2,600,000 

$3,600,000 

$3,600,000 

Unamortized warrant discount

      (70,000)

(169,000)

(239,000)

(294,000)

Unamortized conversion feature discount

    (857,000)

(2,250,000)

(3,107,000)

(3,189,000)

  Senior Notes balance

$     73,000 

$   181,000 

$   254,000 

$   117,000 

Secured Notes

          As discussed above in Note 2, Crown issued $2,000,000 in 10% convertible Secured Notes as part of the Debenture restructuring. The Secured Notes carry a 10% interest rate payable quarterly in cash or Crown common stock at the conversion price at the election of Crown. The Secured notes mature in October 2006 and are convertible into Crown common shares at $0.35 per share. The Secured Notes are secured by all of the Assets of Crown on a pari-passu basis with the Senior Notes. Crown also recorded a discount to the Secured Notes for the intrinsic value of the conversion feature on May 30, 2002 of $1,257,000 and credited additional paid-in capital for that amount. This conversion feature discount is being amortized over the remaining life of the Secured Notes as of May 30, 2002 and charged as interest expense. See Interest below.

at September 30, 2003 is as follows:

      A summary of the Secured Notes

September 30, 2003

December 31, 2002

Face amount of Secured Notes

$ 2,000,000 

$ 2,000,000 

Unamortized conversion feature discount

(998,000)

(1,153,000)

  Secured Notes balance

$ 1,002,000 

$ 847,000 

Subordinated Notes

          As discussed above in Note 2, Crown issued $4,000,000 in 10% convertible Subordinated Notes as part of the Debenture restructuring. The Subordinated Notes carry a 10% interest rate payable quarterly in cash or Crown common stock at the conversion price at election of Crown. The Subordinated Notes mature in October 2006 and are convertible into Crown common shares at $0.75 per share. The conversion feature of the Subordinated Notes had no intrinsic value on the issuance date and accordingly, there was no discount recorded thereon. See Interest below.

          On October 31, 2003 and November 5, 2003 a total $839,331 of Subordinated Notes were converted into 1,119,108 shares of common stock. On November 5, 2003 the remaining $3,160,669 of Subordinated Notes were automatically converted into 4,214,225 shares of common stock in accordance with the provision of the Subordinated Notes whereby the Subordinated Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock trades above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion.

Subordinated Series B Notes

          On February 21, 2003 Crown issued $2,705,000 in 10% Convertible Subordinated Promissory Notes due 2006 Series B (The "Subordinated B Notes"). The Subordinated B Notes are convertible into common stock of Crown at $0.75 per share. There is no beneficial conversion feature for the Subordinated B Note as the market price was below the conversion price when the notes were issued. The Subordinated B Notes pay interest at 10% in stock or cash at Crown's option, and mature on October 19, 2006, the same date as Crown's Senior Notes, Secured Notes and Subordinated Notes. Solitario invested $400,000 in the Subordinated B Notes on the same terms as all other investors.

          On November 5, 2003 $2,705,000 of Subordinated B Notes were automatically converted into 3,606,666 shares of common stock in accordance with the provision of the Subordinated B Notes whereby the Subordinated B Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock trades above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion.

Interest

          All of the above noted discounts are being amortized to interest expense over the respective terms of the underlying instruments. Under generally accepted accounting principals, the discount amortization is computed using the interest method, so as to result in a constant rate of interest, related to the discounts, over the term of the Notes.

          Crown may pay interest in Crown common shares, at its election, on the Senior Notes, the Secured Notes and the Subordinated Notes. The number of shares paid will be determined by dividing the interest accrued and payable on an interest payment date by the conversion price of $0.35 for the Escrowed Notes, $0.2916 on the Solitario Note, $0.35 for the Secured Notes and $0.75 for the Subordinated Notes and the Subordinated B Notes. Crown accrues interest at the nominal rate of 10% during the period the notes are outstanding. For interest paid in Crown common shares, interest expense is adjusted on the interest payment date to the market value of the common shares issued on that date. Through September 30, 2003, Crown has made all interest payments on the Senior, Secured, Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes by issuing shares at the Conversion prices of between $0.29 and $0.35 per share on the Senior and Secured Notes and $0.75 p er share on the Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes.

Crown recorded the following amounts to interest expense related to long-term debt:

 

Three months ended

Three months ended

 

                        September 30, 2003                     

September 30, 2002

 

Senior

Notes

Secured

Notes

Subordinated

Notes

Subordinated

Series B

Notes

Total

Total

 
 

Notes

$244

$133

$124

$85

$586

$ 239

Warrant discount

19

-  

-  

-  

19

18

Conversion feature
  discount

   34

  55

  -  

 -  

  89

  56

 Total

$297

$188

$124

$85

694

313

Convertible debentures
  and other long term debt

  -  

    1

  Total interest expense

       

$694

$314

 

Nine months ended

Nine months ended

 

                        September 30, 2003                     

September 30, 2002

 

Senior

Notes

Secured

Notes

Subordinated

Notes

Subordinated

Series B

Notes

Total

Total

 
 

Notes

$642

$350

$326

$192

$ 1,510

$ 319

Warrant discount

56

-  

-  

-  

56

54

Conversion feature
  discount

   81

 155

  -  

  -  

   236

 74

 Total

$779

$505

$326

$192

1,802

447

Convertible debentures
  and other long term debt

       1

232

  Total interest expense

       

$1,803

$679

 

          4.     Investment in Unconsolidated Subsidiary

          Crown accounts for its investment in Solitario under the equity method. As of September 30, 2003, the market value of Crown's 9,633,585 shares of Solitario was $7,514,000. As of September 30, 2003, Solitario owned 432,158 shares of Crown common stock, received as interest on its Senior Notes and its Subordinated B Notes. Additionally, at September 30, 2003 Solitario had warrants to acquire 3,057,143 shares of Crown common stock at between $0.60 and $0.75 per share and could also acquire up to 3,057,143 additional shares of Crown common stock through conversion of its Senior Notes. Crown eliminates any intercompany gain or loss on Crown shares or warrants included in Solitario's other comprehensive income until realized by Solitario.

Unaudited condensed financial information of Solitario is as follows:

Balance Sheets

September 30,

December 31,

(in thousands)

        2003      

        2002    

Assets

   

Current assets

$1,273

$1,952

Mineral properties (net)

3,794

3,743

Other

3,816

1,208

   Total assets

$8,883

$6,903

Liabilities and stockholders' equity

   

Current liabilities

$     49

$     99

Stockholders' equity

8,834

 6,804

   Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$8,883

$6,903

Statements of Operations

 Three months ended  

     September 30,       

 Nine months ended  

     September 30,       

(in thousands)

     2003    

     2002   

     2003  

     2002   

Revenues

$     91

$   44 

$ 238 

$     100 

Costs and expenses

  313 

  486 

  707 

 1,455 

Net loss

$(222)

$(442)

$(469)

$(1,355)

          On November 4, 2003, Solitario completed a private placement to an independent third party in Canada of 1,500,000 shares at a price of Cdn$1.20 per share for total proceeds of Cdn$1,800,000. The additional shares will have the effect of reducing Crown's interest in Solitario from 41.2% to 38.7%.

          5.     Comprehensive Loss

The following represents comprehensive income (loss) and its components:

 

Three months ended    

       September 30,            

Nine months ended    

     September 30,            

(in thousands)

          2003 

     2002 

          2003

     2002 

Net income (loss) as reported

$(1,223)

$(282)

$(2,574)

$5,410

Net unrealized gain (loss) on marketable equity securities

      35 

 101 

     (16)

   162

Comprehensive income (loss)

$(1,188)

$(181)

$(2,590)

$5,572

 

          6.     Related Party Transactions

          Crown, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Crown Resource Corp. of Colorado ("CRCC"), owns 41.2% of Solitario as of September 30, 2003. On November 4, 2003 Crown's interest was reduced to 38.7% as a result of the issuance of shares by Solitario, see Note 4 above. Crown provides management and technical services to Solitario under a management and technical services agreement originally signed in April 1994 and modified in April 1999, December 2000 and July 2002. Under the modified agreement Solitario reimburses Crown for direct out-of-pocket expenses; payment of between 25% and 75% of executive and administrative salaries and benefits, rent, insurance and investor relations costs and payment of certain indirect costs and expenses paid by Crown on behalf of Solitario. Management service fees paid by Solitario were $89,000 and $275,000, respectively, for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2003 and $105,000 and $365,000, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2002.

          In October 2001, Solitario invested in two Secured Notes, which totaled $1,000,000 of the $3,600,000 principal amount of Secured Notes issued. See Notes 2 and 3 above. The proceeds of $350,000 from the first note (the "Solitario Note") were delivered to Crown. The proceeds from the second note from Solitario, and the remaining Secured Notes of $2,600,000 or $3,250,000 in total, were placed in escrow pending the outcome of Crown's Bankruptcy. In March 2002 an additional $200,000 was advanced to Crown out of escrow of which Solitario's share of the advance was $56,000. The Plan was confirmed on May 30, 2002 and the remaining balance of the proceeds plus interest was released to Crown on June 11, 2002, the effective date of the Plan. The independent Board members of both Crown and Solitario approved the transaction. The terms of the transaction on the Escrowed Notes were the same as given to other senior lenders of Crown (the "Senior Lenders") and, with regard to the terms of the $350,000 Solitario Note, the terms were negotiated with and approved by the other Senior Lenders.

          Crown entered into a Voting Agreement dated as of April 15, 2002 among Zoloto Investor's, LP ("Zoloto") and Solitario, who are each shareholders of Crown (the "Signing Shareholders"). Pursuant to the Voting Agreement, Solitario and Zoloto agree that they will each vote their owned shares during the term of the Voting Agreement for the election of three designees of Zoloto and one designee of Solitario (the "Designee Directors") to the Board of Directors of Crown. The Signing Shareholders agreed that any shares received by either Signing Shareholder would be subject to the Voting Agreement during its term and any successor, assignee or transferee of shares from either Signing Shareholder would be subject to the terms of the Voting Agreement during its term. The Voting Agreement terminates on June 25, 2006. As of September 30, 2003, the Signing Shareholders collectively held 1,200,533 shares, or approximately 21.3%, of the outs tanding shares of Crown. As of September 30, 2003, Solitario owned 432,158 shares of Crown common stock, received as interest on its Senior Notes, had warrants to acquire 3,057,143 shares of Crown common stock at between $0.60 and $0.75 per share and could also acquire up to 3,057,143 additional shares of Crown common stock through conversion of its Senior Notes.

          On February 21, 2003, Solitario invested $400,000 in the Subordinated B Notes on the same terms and conditions as all other investors. See note 3 above.

          7.     Income Taxes

          Crown accounts for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." Under SFAS No. 109, income taxes are provided for the tax effects of transactions reported in the financial statements and consist of taxes currently due plus deferred taxes related to certain income and expenses recognized in different periods for financial and income tax reporting purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities represent the future tax return consequences of those differences, which will either be taxable or deductible when the assets and liabilities are recovered or settled. Deferred taxes also are recognized for operating losses and tax credits that are available to offset future taxable income and income taxes, respectively. A valuation allowance is provided if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In connection with its corporate reorganization, an ownership change occurred within the meaning of Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code. Consequently, the ability of Crown to use its remaining net operating losses and credits will be subject to an annual limitation based on the product of the market value of Crown immediately before reorganization multiplied by the federal long-term tax exempt bond rate. Based upon that computation, Crown has estimated that its available net operating loss deduction available as of the Effective Date will be limited to approximately $120,000 per year for the next 20 years. As a result of this reduction in available net operating losses and losses incurred subsequent to the Effective Date, Crown estimates that its deferred tax liabilities exceed its realizable deferred tax assets by $1,643,000 at September 30, 2003. Crown recognized $629,000 and $1,324,000, respectively, as a deferred tax benefit for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003 compared to a deferred tax benefit of $144,000 and $207,000, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2002, related to its taxable book losses before extraordinary item.

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

          The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, and Management's Discussion and Analysis contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002. All prior period per share amounts have been adjusted to account for the one-for-five reverse split in accordance with the Plan. Our financial condition and results of operations are not necessarily indicative of what may be expected in future periods.

Results of Operations

          We currently have no source of recurring revenue and we anticipate any future recurring revenue would only occur after the successful development of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. The successful development of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project is dependent on several factors, many of which are beyond our control. We cannot provide any assurance we will be able to successfully permit and develop the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. See Liquidity and Capital Resources, Proposed Kinross Transaction, and Buckhorn Mountain Project Permitting below.

Three months ended September 30, 2003

          We had a net loss before extraordinary item of $1,223,000 or $0.22 per share, for the third quarter of 2003 compared with a loss before extraordinary item of $282,000, or $0.09 per share, for the third quarter of 2002. The increase in the loss was the result of an increase in general and administrative costs primarily related to non-cash stock option compensation expense of $848,000 recorded in the third quarter of 2003 and an increase in interest costs related to the convertible notes issued during 2002 and 2003. These increases were mitigated by having no reorganization costs during 2003, a smaller loss at Solitario (which had increased interest income and reduced exploration expense during the third quarter of 2003 compared to the third quarter of 2002), an increase in the deferred tax benefit recorded in the third quarter of 2003 compared to the third quarter of 2002. We recorded a charge of $54,000 during the third qua rter related to the reversal of a subsidiary's foreign tax refund recorded in the second quarter of 2003.

          Our revenues from interest income for the third quarter of 2003 were $6,000 compared with $20,000 for the prior year third quarter. A reduction in cash balances primarily as a result of development costs at the Buckhorn Mountain accounted for the decrease.

          We had no active exploration projects during the third quarter of 2003 or 2002. Our general and administrative expenses increased to $1,013,000 during the third quarter of 2003 compared to $96,000 in the prior year third quarter. The increase during 2003 was primarily related to a non-cash charge of $848,000 to compensation expense related to stock options we granted during 2002 that are subject to variable plan accounting. Under variable plan accounting, any increase in the intrinsic value of an option due to changes in the market value of our common stock are charged to compensation expense during the period of service (the vesting period) of the option. In the event the market value of our stock is reduced, we may record a credit to (reduction of) compensation expense up to the amount of previously recorded compensation expense. There were no charges to compensation expense in the prior year third quarter. In addition inc reased administrative non-bankruptcy costs related to legal fees of $36,000 and shareholder relation costs of $21,000 were recorded during the third quarter of 2003 compared to legal fees of $2,000 and shareholder relation cost of $13,000 recorded during 2002, when these costs were significantly reduced while we were in bankruptcy.

          Our interest expense was $694,000 for the third quarter of 2003 compared to $314,000 in the third quarter of the prior year. This interest is related to the newly issued Senior Notes, Secured Notes, Subordinated Notes and Subordinated B Notes. All of the notes accrue interest at the rate of 10% per year. We have the option to pay the quarterly interest payments in our common stock at the conversion price of $0.35 per share and $0.2916 per share for the Senior Notes, $0.35 per share for the Secured Notes, and $0.75 per share for the Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes. During the third quarter of 2003, we issued 626,785 shares of common stock, with a market value of $583,000 for interest on the Senior, Secured, Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes, compared to the issuance during the third quarter of 2002 of 356,530 shares with a market value of $143,000 for interest on the Senior, Secured and Subordinated Notes. In additio n, we issued the Senior Notes at a discount related to attached warrants and a beneficial conversion feature. We also issued the Secured Notes at a discount related to a beneficial conversion feature. These discounts are being amortized to interest expense, using the interest method over the life of the notes. During the third quarter of 2003 we recorded $108,000 of interest expense related to the amortization of the discounts compared to $74,000 in the prior year quarter. See Note 3 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

          We recorded $91,000 of equity in loss of our unconsolidated subsidiary, Solitario, during the third quarter of 2003 compared to $182,000 during the third quarter of 2002. The decrease in the loss from Solitario was the result of Solitario's reduced exploration expense of $144,000 in the third quarter, compared to $216,000 during 2002. Solitario concentrated its exploration activities to the Pedra Branca project in Brazil, in both 2002 and 2003. In January 2003, Solitario entered into a joint venture agreement with Anglo American Platinum Corporation, Ltd. ("Anglo"), which provides that Anglo will pay the exploration costs on the project up to $500,000 during the first six months of the agreement. In addition, Solitario recorded increased interest income and reduced management fees during the third quarter of 2003 compared to the third quarter of 2002.

          A deferred tax benefit of $629,000 was recorded during the third quarter of 2003 compared to a deferred tax benefit of $144,000 during the third quarter of 2002 related to our losses during the respective quarters. Prior to the Effective Date, we had provided a valuation allowance for the excess of its deferred tax assets over its deferred tax liabilities. As a result of the Plan, the availability of our deferred tax assets, consisting primarily of net operating and capital loss carryforwards were limited by the provisions of section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code as a result of a change in control. The reduction in the deferred tax asset, coupled with additional deferred tax liabilities recorded in connection with the discounts to the Senior Notes and the Secured Notes, resulted in a net deferred tax liability of $3,190,000 as of the Effective Date.

Nine months ended September 30, 2003

          We had a loss before extraordinary item of $2,574,000 or $0.52 per share for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $1,514,000 or $0.49 per share for the first nine months of 2002. The increased loss is the result of increased general and administrative costs, primarily related to $1,453,000 of compensation expense related to variable plan accounting recorded in the first nine months of 2003 and an increase in interest expense on the Senior, Secured, Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes during the first half of 2003 compared to interest on the Senior Notes and the Debentures through the first nine months of 2002. The increase in these costs during 2003 compared to 2002 was mitigated by a reduction in our equity share of Solitario's loss and an increase in the deferred tax credit available in 2003 compared to the first nine months of 2002. Additionally, we recorded a gain on the sale of $171,000 on the sale of our Cord Ranch p roperty in the third quarter of 2002 and there was no similar gain recorded in 2003.

          We had no active exploration projects during the first nine months of 2003 or 2002. Our general and administrative expenses increased to $1,907,000 during the first nine months of 2003 compared to $287,000 in first nine months of the prior year. The increase during 2003 was primarily related to a non-cash charge of $1,453,000 to compensation expense related to stock options granted during 2002 that are subject to variable plan accounting. There were no charges to compensation expense in the prior year period. We recorded increased administrative non-bankruptcy costs related to legal fees of $71,000, travel costs of $23,000 and shareholder relation costs of $67,000 were recorded during the first nine months of 2003 compared to legal fees of $7,000, travel costs of $7,000 and shareholder relation costs of $61,000 during 2002, when these costs were significantly reduced as we were in bankruptcy. In addition, our net administrati ve expenses were increased as a result of a reduction in management fees to $275,000 during the first nine months of 2003 compared to $365,000 during the first nine months of 2002.

          Our interest expense was $1,803,000 for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $679,000 in the prior year period. The interest is primarily related to the Senior Notes, Secured Notes, Subordinated Notes and Subordinated B Notes. All of the notes accrue interest at the rate of 10% per year. We have the option to pay the quarterly interest payments in our common stock at the conversion price of $0.35 per share and $0.2916 per share for the Senior Notes, $0.35 per share for the Secured Notes, and $0.75 per share for the Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes. During the first nine months of 2003, we issued 1,752,886 shares of common stock, with a market value of $1,453,000 for interest on the Senior, Secured Subordinated and Subordinated B Notes, compared to our issuance of 860,953 shares with a market value of $191,000 for interest on the Senior, Secured and Subordinated Notes during the first nine months of 2002. In addition during the nine months of 2003 we recorded $292,000 of interest expense related to the amortization of the discounts on the Senior and Secured Notes compared to amortization of these discounts of $128,000 in the first nine months of the prior year.

          We recorded $193,000 of equity in loss of unconsolidated subsidiary, related to Solitario, during the first nine months 2003 compared to $558,000 during the first nine months of 2002. The decrease in the loss from Solitario was the result of Solitario's reduced exploration expense in the first nine months of 2003 of $170,000, compared to $711,000 during the first nine months of 2002 as a result of the Anglo joint venture. Solitario recorded increased interest income of $238,000 during the first nine months of 2003 compared to $100,000 during the first nine months of 2002. In addition, Solitario reduced general and administrative expenses to $218,000 during the first nine months of 2003 compared to $300,000 during the first nine months of 2002 related to reductions in staff travel and office expenses.

          We recorded a deferred tax benefit of $1,324,000 in the nine months of 2003 compared to a benefit of $207,000 in the first nine months of 2002. Prior to the Effective Date, we had provided a valuation allowance for our deferred tax assets, and were not able to recognize any deferred tax benefit.

Reorganization and Bankruptcy:

          We recorded reorganization costs of $391,000 during the first nine months of 2002 related to the Bankruptcy. These costs consisted of legal, accounting and consulting expenses. We recorded a net extraordinary gain of $6,924,000 on the extinguishment of debt in connection with the exchange of the Debentures. See Note 2 in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. The transaction is detailed below (in thousands):

Debt extinguished:

 

  Debentures

$15,000 

  Plus accrued interest

     970 

    Total debt extinguished

15,970 

Assets exchanged for Debentures:

 

  Cash

1,000 

  Secured Notes

2,000 

  Subordinated Notes

4,000 

  Warrants, at fair market on date of issuance

     286 

    Total Assets exchanged for Debentures

  7,286 

Gross gain from extinguishment of debt

8,684 

Less deferred taxes

(1,760)

Extraordinary gain on extinguishment of debt

$ 6,924 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

          Due to the nature of the mining business, the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties require significant expenditures prior to the commencement of production. We have in the past financed our activities through the sale of debt and equity securities, joint venture arrangements (including project financing) and the sale of interests in our properties. To the extent necessary, we expect to continue to use similar financing techniques. Our exploration and development activities and funding opportunities, as well as those of our joint venture partners, may be materially affected by gold price and mineral commodity levels and changes in those levels. The market price of gold and mineral commodities is determined in world markets and is affected by numerous factors, many of which are beyond our control.

          Net cash used in our operating activities was $554,000 in the first nine months of 2003 compared to $752,000 during the first nine months of 2002. The use of cash included payment of $161,000 of accounts payable that were reduced to $126,000 at September 30, 2003 from $287,000 at December 31, 2002. The large accounts payable at the end of 2002 related to drilling activity on the Buckhorn Mtn. Project at the end of last year.

          During the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we spent $709,000 for net additions to mineral property for costs related to permitting and maintenance costs at our Buckhorn Mtn. Project compared to $180,000 in the first nine months of 2002. Since we emerged from the Bankruptcy, our primary focus has been and will continue to be toward the permitting of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. See Buckhorn Mountain Project Permitting below. We have budgeted $1,575,000 for permitting and development expenditures in 2003 related to the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. These costs include infill drilling of the deposit, certain baseline hydrologic studies, engineering and design work, an updated feasibility study, and work on a supplemental draft environmental impact statement. Additionally, we will pay certain maintenance and legal expenses to maintain our interest in the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. The development of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project through in itial production is currently estimated to be approximately $91 million (including $21 million in contingency). We will require significant new financial resources in order to develop the Buckhorn Mtn. Project, which may be in the form of a joint venture, project or debt finance, or issuance of equity. There is no assurance we will be able to obtain the necessary financial resources on acceptable terms, if at all. See Proposed Kinross Transaction below.

          Net cash provided from our financing activities was $2,665,000 for the first nine months of 2003 compared to $2,264,000 for the same period of 2002. We issued $2,705,000 in Subordinated B Notes on February 21, 2003. During the third quarter of 2002 we received $3,284,000 from the proceeds of the Escrowed Notes on the Effective Date, of which $1,000,000 was distributed for the benefit of the Debenture holders.

          Cash and cash equivalents amounted to $2,423,000 at September 30, 2003. These funds are generally invested in short-term interest-bearing deposits and securities.

Buckhorn Mountain Project Permitting

          In July 2001 we became the sole owner of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project. Previously the Project had been subject to a joint venture agreement between us and Newmont Mining Corporation ("Newmont"). Newmont had proposed an open-pit heap-leach mining operation at the Project. However in January of 2000 the Washington Pollution Control Hearings Board (the "PCHB") vacated certain previously granted 401 Water Quality Permit and certain water rights for the Project. It is not known if other permits previously granted to the Project may be subject to review as a result of the PCHB ruling.

          We engaged Mine Reserves Associates ("MRA") to conduct an independent analysis of its Project reserves in March 2000. Per the MRA report, we are reporting proven and probable reserves of 2,139,000 tons at a grade of 0.392 for a total of 839,000 contained ounces. The MRA design would use the bulk of the waste rock material from mine design for tailings dam construction and to backfill the underground mining areas, in order to increase the recoverable underground ounces.

          As part of the analysis of the Project reserves subsequent to the January 2000 PCHB ruling, we retained Gochnour and Associates ("Gochnour"), an independent mining environmental consultant, to review the required permits for the mine design as proposed in the MRA report. Gochnour indicated the MRA design would require conducting additional baseline studies and collecting data for modeling to amend previously approved permits as well as to obtain permits for activities that were not previously contemplated, for example the underground mining effects on ground water. Gochnour indicated the underground alternative would also require mitigation of environmental impacts. The Gochnour report concluded the MRA mine design is legally permittable. Although neither Gochnour nor us are aware of any laws or regulations which would be violated by the mine design proposed by MRA, there will continue to be uncertainty regarding our ability t o obtain the necessary permits from the regulatory authorities in a timely manner, if ever.

          We filed a Plan of Operations ("POO") on May 29, 2003 with the United States Forest Service and the Washington Stated Department of Ecology detailing our underground mining proposal. We intend to file a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement ("SEIS") during the fourth quarter of 2003. The POO and SEIS are subject to regulatory review and public comment prior to approval. Crown anticipates it will complete an updated reserve report and feasibility study on Buckhorn Mountain in the fourth quarter of 2003. Construction of the Project will not begin prior to the successful completion and approval of the POO and SEIS as well as other remaining permit applications and resolution of any legal and administrative challenges. Potential delays due to the permit process, appeals or litigation are difficult to quantify. There are no assurances that required permits will be issued in a timely fashion, that we will prevail in future l egal actions, if any, or that conditions contained in permits issued by the agencies will not be so onerous as to preclude construction or operation of the Project. See Proposed Kinross Transaction below.

          Additionally, uncertainties with respect to the timing of commercial production at the Project, as well as the potential fluctuation in gold prices, could have a material effect upon our ability to fund our operating activities in the long term. There is no assurance that such funding will or can be secured on terms favorable to us, if at all.

Proposed Kinross Transaction

          On October 8, 2003 Crown announced the signing of a letter of intent (the "LOI") with Kinross Gold Corporation of Toronto, Ontario Canada ("Kinross"), whereby Kinross would acquire 100% of Crown. Under the terms of the LOI, shareholders of Crown Resources will receive 0.2911 shares of Kinross for each share of Crown. Assuming all of Crown's warrants are exercised on a cashless basis at the market price of Crown on October 8, 2003 and convertible debentures are converted, a total of approximately 13.1 million common shares of Kinross will be issued upon the completion of the transaction. The transaction is subject to the execution of definitive documentation, respective board and regulatory approvals, the successful completion of due diligence and a minimum two-thirds approval at a special meeting of Crown shareholders. Prior to the completion of the acquisition, Crown would dividend to its shareholders and warrant holders its 9,633,585 shares representing Crown's 38.7% equity interest in Solitario. As part of the distribution of Crown shares, Solitario has agreed to seek approval of its shareholders to the release of 3,140,162 Solitario shares currently held in escrow by the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Note Conversions

          On October 31, 2003 and November 5, 2003 a total $839,331 of Subordinated Notes were converted into 1,119,108 shares of common stock. On November 5, 2003 the remaining $3,160,669 of Subordinated Notes were automatically converted into 4,214,225 shares of common stock in accordance with the provision of the Subordinated Notes whereby the Subordinated Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock trades above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion. On November 5, 2003 $2,705,000 of Subordinated B Notes were automatically converted into 3,606,666 shares of common stock in accordance with the provision of the Subordinated B Notes whereby the Subordinated B Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock tra des above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion.

New Accounting Pronouncements

          In April 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149 "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS No. 149") to provide amend and clarify financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. The changes in this statement improve financial reporting by requiring that contracts with comparable characteristics be accounted for similarly to achieve more consistent reporting of contracts as either derivative or hybrid instruments. SFAS No. 149 has been adopted by Crown and will be applied prospectively for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003. The adoption of this statement has not had a material effect on Crown's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

          In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150 "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity" ("SFAS No. 150") which clarifies the classification as liabilities for certain financial instruments including equity shares that are mandatorily redeemable, or a financial instrument other than equity shares that has an obligation to repurchase the instrument with equity shares, including a conditional obligation to settle the financial instrument with equity shares. SFAS No. 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into after May 31, 2003. The adoption of this statement, on July 1, 2003, has not had a material effect on Crown's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

          The Emerging Issues Task Force is in the process of forming a committee to evaluate certain mining industry accounting issues, including issues arising from the implementation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141 and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142 to business combinations within the mining industry and accounting for goodwill and other intangibles. Although such committee has not yet been formed, and no formal agenda has been set, the issues related to the business combinations within the mining industry and accounting for goodwill and other intangibles may be addressed along with the related question of whether mineral interests conveyed by leases represent tangible or intangible assets and the amortization of such assets. While Crown believes that its accounting for its mineral interests conveyed by leases is in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, Crown cannot predict whether the deliberations of this committee will ultimately modify or otherwise result in new accounting standards or interpretations thereof that differ from its current practices.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

          Land and leasehold acquisition costs are capitalized in cost centers and are depleted on the basis of the cost centers' economic reserves (estimated recoverable, proven and probable reserves) using the units-of-production method. If there are insufficient economic reserves to use as a basis for depleting such costs, they are expensed as a mineral property write-off in the period in which the determination is made.

          We expense all exploration costs incurred on properties other than acquisition costs prior to the establishment of proven and probable reserves. All exploration costs capitalized on properties with proven and probable reserves are periodically evaluated to assess their recoverablility as discussed below.

          We record the proceeds from the sale of property interests as a reduction of the related property's capitalized cost. Proceeds that exceed the capital cost of the property are recorded as revenue. When such proceeds are associated with properties subject to a joint venture, they are recorded as revenue in accordance with the terms of the joint venture and the transfer of the property interest to the joint venture partner during the term of the joint venture.

          We regularly perform evaluations of our assets to assess the recoverability of its investments in these assets. All long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances change which indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable utilizing established guidelines based upon future net cash flows from the asset. There were no mineral property write-downs in the first nine months of 2003 or 2002.

          Our proven and probable reserves are based on extensive drilling, sampling, mine modeling and metallurgical testing from which economic feasibility has been determined. The price sensitivity of reserves depends upon several factors including grade, waste-to-ore ratio, and ore type. The reserves are estimated based on information available at the time the reserves are calculated. Recovery rates vary depending on the metallurgical properties of each deposit and the production process used. The reserve assumes the average recovery rate for the deposit, which takes into account the processing methods scheduled to be used. The cutoff grade, or lowest grade of mineralized material considered economic to process, varies with material type, metallurgical recoveries, and operating costs. Our proven and probable reserves are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the indicated levels of recovery of gold will be realized. Ounce s of gold in the proven and probable reserves are prior to any losses during metallurgical treatment. Reserve estimates may require revision based on actual production experience. Market price fluctuations of gold, as well as increased production costs or reduced recovery rates, could render proven and probable reserves containing relatively lower grades of mineralization uneconomic to exploit and might result in a reduction of reserves. As discussed above, the ultimate recovery of our mineral reserves is dependent on obtaining necessary permits for the Buckhorn Mtn. Project.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

 

        

As of September 30, 2003

Payment due by Period



Contractual Obligations

Total

Less than 1 year

1-3 years

3-5 years

More than 5 years

Long-Term Debt (1)

$12,455,000

$51,000

$98,000

$12,305,000

$        -  

Operating Lease

       98,000

  5,000

  93,000

             -  

       -  

          Total

$12,455,000

$55,000

$193,000

$12,305,000

$        -  

(1) Our long-term debts include Senior Notes, Secured Notes, Subordinated Notes and Subordinated B Notes (collectively "the Notes"), all due October 2006. The Notes carry a 10% interest rate, payable quarterly. We currently anticipate that we will elect to pay future interest in cash when the market price of our common stock is in excess of the conversion price of the notes. However, we cannot assure that we will have the liquidity to pay these Notes upon maturity. On October 31, 2003 and November 5, 2003 a total $839,331 of Subordinated Notes were converted into 1,119,108 shares of common stock. On November 5, 2003 the remaining $3,160,669 of Subordinated Notes were automatically converted into 4,214,225 shares of common stock in accordance with the provision of the Subordinated Notes whereby the Subordinated Notes automatically convert into common stock if the price of the common stock trades above 233% of the conversion price of $0.75, or $1.75, for twenty consecutive days. The shares related to the automatic conversion are deemed issued and outstanding as of the date of the automatic conversion.

          Additionally, Crown estimates its annual assessment for 152 unpatented claims at Buckhorn Mountain to be $15,200 per year.

The following table illustrates the potential dilution from the conversion of the notes and warrants as of September 30, 2003:

 

Outstanding common stock

Senior
Notes

Senior Solitario
Note

Secured Notes

Subordinated Notes

Subordinated
Series B
Notes

Warrants

Total shares

Outstanding balance

5,639,048

$3,250,000

$350,000

$2,000,000

$4,000,000

$2,705,000

16,200,000

 

Conversion price

      n/a

    $0.35

 $0.2916

     0.35

    $0.75

    $0.75

      N/a

 

Fully diluted shares

5,639,048

 9,285,714

1,200,000

 5,714,285

 5,333,334

 3,606,667

16,200,000

46,979,048

Percentages

     12.0

     19.8

    2.5%

     12.1%

     11.4%

      7.7%

    34.5

    100%

          Additionally, as of September 30, 2003, we have 3,400,000 options outstanding that have been issued to Directors, officers and employees with exercise prices of between $0.40 and $0.45 per share, which expire in 2007.

          We have budgeted approximately $1,575,000 for permitting costs at our Buckhorn Mtn. Project for 2003 of which $709,000 has been expended through September 30, 2003. Additionally, development of the Buckhorn Mtn. Project may take up to $91 million (including a $21 million contingency reserve). See Buckhorn Mtn. Project Permitting above.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Discussions about Market Risk

Market Risk

          As of September 30, 2003, there have been no material changes in the market risks to which we are exposed as disclosed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

            (a) Management of the Company has evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act").  Based on that evaluation, the chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and that information required to be disclosed by the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including the chief executive officer and financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required d isclosure.

           (b) There has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Safe Harbor

          The information set forth in this report includes "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections. Factors that could cause results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the timing of receipt of necessary governmental permits, the market price of gold, results of current exploration activities and other risk factors detailed in our Annual Report on form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2002.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

          Previously reported.

Item 2. Changes in Securities

          None

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

          None

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

          None

Item 5. Other Information

          None

Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

          (a)     Exhibits:

Exhibits

3.1

Crown's Articles of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4, Commission File No. 33-25033 (the "1989 S-4 Registration Statement")).

3.2

Crown's Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the 1989 S-4 Registration Statement).

10.1

Letter of Intent with Kinross Gold Corporation dated October 8, 2003, whereby subject to certain conditions Kinross agrees to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Crown.

31.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer of Registrant Pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer of Registrant Pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

   

32.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S. C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

   

          (b)     Reports on Form 8 K:

None

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

 

CROWN RESOURCES CORPORATION

November 13, 2003

Date

By:

/s/ James R. Maronick
James R. Maronick
Chief Financial Officer

 
   

 

 

 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit Number

Description

3.1

Crown's Articles of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4, Commission File No. 33-25033 (the "1989 S-4 Registration Statement")).

3.2

Crown's Bylaws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the 1989 S-4 Registration Statement).

10.1

Letter of Intent with Kinross Gold Corporation dated October 8, 2003, whereby subject to certain conditions Kinross agrees to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Crown.

31.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to SEC Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.