It is not the first time such rumors have arisen.

“The company has become aware that again, certain third parties unknown to the company have been spreading misleading, false and erroneous information over the internet, via email and possibly other mediums, all of which are unauthorized and are being made without the permission or authorization of the company,” Liberty officials said.

It is believed the emails are originating in Europe and that the text of the communications suggests Liberty is the subject of an “unannounced, negotiated buyout” by an unknown group.

It also said Liberty’s coal property was a target for shale oil production.

“All of [these statements] are entirely untrue,” Liberty said.

“Liberty Coal's board and officers have no knowledge of any contacts, concepts or negotiations for a buyout or business combination for the company or the assets of the company.”

It went on to ask its shareholders and others to “strictly ignore” any statements about Liberty unless the communication came directly from its officials.

Rumors about Liberty and its position have been swirling for months.

Financial blog Hot Stocked said Tuesday that the company pointed fingers at some of its larger shareholders during rumblings last northern autumn.

The column said it received word of another “unwanted promotion” in late January.