A study or the possibility of a modern mining operation in the Valley Coal Fields of Virginia begins with a brief history of previous mining operations in the area. Following this is a study of the geological occurrence and a geographical description of the site selected. The deposit is studied from various angles - physical characteristics of the seam in place, chemical characteristics and washability are all included. After the amount and type of impurities present in the deposit are ascertained, a coal preparation plant is proposed to clean the coal to the desired level. Leaving the surface problems, the underground problems of hoisting, mining methods, ventilation, haulage and drainage, and power are taken up separately and a solution recommended for each problem. To operate the mine an organization is designed to fit the solution of the various problems. The estimate of the cost of equipping and providing the labor and supervision to operate such a mine is included in the study. This cost is compared with the expected income. / Master of Science