Coins are more than just simple means of payment. Behind each of them is a whole story: an era, technology, the art of minting and even unexpected surprises for collectors. For collectors, trips to the mints can be especially valuable, as here people can both observe the minting of modern coins, as well as buy exclusive copies, which are difficult to find in ordinary stores.
But even if you are not an avid numismatist, traveling to such places promises a lot of interesting discoveries. For example, in the Royal Mint of Great Britain you can learn how Isaac Newton fought against counterfeiters, and in the U.S. Mint to see how modern dollar coins are produced.
Here you should also remember that even seemingly ordinary money can have hidden value. For example, the 1965 nickel value can be significantly higher than the face amount if the coin has rare characteristics. And this is another reason to be more careful with your finds and learn something new about them or even get back to their roots, i.e. mints and see how they appeared.
So today we will talk about the three minutes, their features, and interesting facts so that you get the most out of your travels.
The U.S. Mint, Philadelphia, USA: The Birthplace of American Currency
Where and when: 151 N Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA; 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, tours every hour
Founded in 1792, the United States Mint in Philadelphia is considered the first official mint of the United States. When the young nation needed a reliable currency system, the Philadelphia Mint was founded to create coins that would unify trade between the states. The first coins were made from silverware donated supposedly by Thomas Jefferson himself, which adds to the spirit of adventurism of the era
Throughout history, the Mint has produced some of America's most iconic coins, from the early silver dollars with hair down to the double eagles of St. Gaudens. One of the mint’s most prized historical artifacts is the country’s first-ever coin press, which was used in shaping American currency. This machine was responsible for striking the 1792 half dismes, one of the earliest silver coins produced under the newly established U.S. Mint.
These days, the Philadelphia Mint continues to push the boundaries of numismatic perfection. In 2017, it minted the largest gold coin in U.S. history - an astounding 1-kilogram gold piece. This is a testament both to the evolution of minting technology, but also to the craftsmanship that continues to go into coin production. From its humble beginnings as a hand minted silver piece to producing some of the most complex and valuable coins in the world, the United States Mint remains a witness to America's rich numismatic heritage.
Visitor’s Guide: Making the Most of Your Visit
Well, to get the most out of your trip, in the morning start your day with an official tour of the mint, where you can see coins being struck and learn about the history of American currency. During the tour visitors may see a close-up view of modern minting technology and also even look at some of the rarest coins ever produced.
Once you visit the mint, consider taking a short walk to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall - both of which are iconic pieces of American history. Both of these sights offer a deeper understanding of the country’s early days.
And finally, end your day with visiting Philadelphia’s antique shops and numismatic stores, where you might just come across a rare Buffalo nickel or Morgan silver dollar for your collection.
Tip: The official mint gift shop is one of the best places to buy commemorative coins and special mint sets directly from the source, so you can make sure it is authentic and in high quality.
The Royal Mint, Llantrisant, Wales: Over a Thousand Years of Coinage
Where and when: Ynysmaerdy, Llantrisant, Wales; 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, last entry at 3:30 PM.
The history of this mint dates back to 886 and over time, the Royal Mint has moved and evolved, so that it consistently played an important role in the production of currency for the United Kingdom, as well as for more than 30 different countries around the world.
For a long period of time the Royal Mint was always at the heart of monetization and innovation. It was in the 17th century, where the Royal Mint pioneered the world's first fully mechanized coin production, thus revolutionizing the minting process and setting global standards for currency production.
Another thing that makes the Royal Mint even more interesting is its connection to history's greatest minds. One of the most prominent figures was Sir Isaac Newton, who served as Master of the Mint from 1699 to 1727. Isaac Newton - a scientific genius - took on the difficult task of fighting counterfeiters and introduced measures that dramatically improved the accuracy and reliability of British coinage. Under his leadership, new weight standards were introduced, counterfeiters were actively pursued, and overall confidence in British currency increased dramatically.
By the way, the Royal Mint also played a great role during the Second World War: when Britain faced the threat of Nazi invasion, the government decided to secretly move its gold reserves into underground vaults to protect the nation's wealth. Due to these measures the British government kept economic stability even during one of the most turbulent periods in history.
Visiting The Royal Mint Experience
In the morning start your day with a visit to The Royal Mint Experience, where you can watch coins being struck in real time and learn about the nuances of the minting process. Don’t miss the chance to mint your own coin - a unique souvenir to take home.
Then in the afternoon take a short drive to Cardiff Castle (a stunning historical site) that blends Roman foundations, medieval architecture, and Victorian grandeur. Explore the beautifully preserved interiors and climb the castle towers for panoramic views of Cardiff.
Finally, wrap up your day with a traditional Welsh meal at a local pub, where you might even see vintage coins still in circulation. Enjoy classic Welsh dishes like cawl (a hearty lamb stew) or Welsh rarebit while soaking in the historical atmosphere.
Tip: If you happen to come across an old British coin during your travels, use a Coin ID Scanner to instantly uncover its history, composition, and potential value. You never know - you might discover a rare shilling or an antique sovereign hidden in plain sight!
The Royal Canadian Mint, Ottawa, Canada
Where and when: 320 Sussex Dr, Ottawa, ON, Canada; 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, tours run every 30 minutes.
The Royal Canadian Mint in Ottawa is not just a coin manufacturing facility, it is a place where advanced technology meets numismatic history. Unlike other mints (that primarily produce currency) the Royal Canadian Mint is popular for its innovations in security features, precious metal refining and commemorative coin design. It is where some of the most technologically advanced coins in the world were born, including coins with laser-etched security features and colored details that are unlike any other.
But what really makes this mint special is its record-breaking achievements. It was here that the largest and heaviest gold coin in the world was minted - a 100-kilogram coin made of 99.99% pure gold in 2007. Its face value was 1 million Canadian dollars, but its gold content was far higher. One of these massive coins was even stolen from a German museum in 2017 in one of the most famous numismatic heists in history (using only a rope and a wheelbarrow - the thieves pulled the coin through a window).
A Day at the Royal Canadian Mint
Morning: Begin your visit with a guided tour of the minting facility, where you can witness the precise craftsmanship behind Canada’s coins. Here, you will learn about the mint’s pioneering techniques, e.g., the use of micro-engraving and holographic security features.
Afternoon: Take a scenic walk to Parliament Hill, where you can admire Ottawa’s historic architecture and even catch the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you are interested in Canada’s banking and economic history, consider visiting the Bank of Canada Museum, where you can find some interactive exhibits about the country’s currency evolution.
Evening: End your day at one of Ottawa’s numismatic shops, where collectors gather to exchange rare Canadian pennies, silver dollars, and commemorative coins. Whether you are looking to add to your collection or simply looking for something, these shops can help you to see full splendor ща Canada’s rich coinage history.
Tip: If you are willing to see gold coin minting in action, weekdays are the best time to visit, as the production schedule is more active. Also, don’t forget to stop by the mint’s official boutique, where you can purchase limited-edition coins and souvenirs - some of which are only available on-site.
A Day to Remember
A visit to a mint is a chance to learn how money is made, as well as to look at familiar things in a new way. Who would have thought that behind every coin there are so many interesting stories? Perhaps after such a trip you will start to look at your change a bit more closely.