Noble Mineral Exploration Sells Island Pond Claims to Benton Resources

Noble Mineral Exploration Inc. has entered into an agreement to sell its Island Pond claims in Newfoundland & Labrador to Benton Resources Inc. The Island Pond claims consist of seven mining claims covering approximately 175 hectares in Central Newfoundland. This property holds strategic importance as it is located north of Benton's South Pond Gold Zone within the Great Burnt Copper-Gold Project area, creating potential for consolidated exploration and development activities across the broader project footprint.

Under the terms of the agreement, Noble will receive 1,000,000 common shares of Benton and a cash payment of $30,000 in exchange for the claims. The shares will be subject to the standard four-month hold period required by TSX Venture Exchange policies. This transaction structure provides Noble with immediate liquidity through the cash component while maintaining exposure to Benton's future success through the equity stake. The strategic location of these claims adjacent to Benton's existing South Pond Gold Zone suggests potential synergies that could enhance the overall value of the Great Burnt project.

Noble will retain significant ongoing interest in the property through a 1% net smelter returns royalty that is not subject to any buyback rights. However, Benton maintains a right of first refusal over any proposed sale of this royalty by Noble. The property is also subject to a pre-existing 2% net smelter returns royalty, which means multiple parties maintain financial interests in the property's future production. This royalty structure ensures Noble continues to benefit from any future mineral production while Benton gains full operational control of the consolidated land package.

The transaction remains subject to certain conditions, including approval from Noble's Board of Directors and any required approvals from the TSX Venture Exchange. H. Vance White, Noble's CEO, commented on the transaction, expressing congratulations to Benton for their success to date on the Great Burnt project and anticipation for future results. The sale represents a strategic realignment of Noble's asset portfolio, allowing the company to monetize non-core assets while maintaining exposure to potential future discoveries through retained royalties and share ownership in Benton.

This transaction highlights the ongoing consolidation occurring in Newfoundland's mining sector, particularly in the Central Newfoundland region where multiple junior exploration companies are actively exploring for copper, gold, and other minerals. The strategic positioning of the Island Pond claims within Benton's existing project area makes this acquisition particularly valuable for Benton's long-term development plans. For Noble, the deal provides capital and equity in a company actively advancing adjacent properties, creating potential for enhanced shareholder value through multiple channels. More information about Noble's operations and corporate structure is available at https://www.noblemineralexploration.com.