Modern technology is rapidly changing our daily lives, and numismatics, the science of coins, is not left behind. Due to modern applications and identifiers (https://coin-identifier.com/), collectors can easily identify rare and valuable coins, learn their history and estimated value. However, a personal visit to the places where coins are born or masterpieces of monetary art are kept cannot be overemphasized. Here we would like to tell you about four coin-related places that are worth a visit for any collector, as well as about technology that can help you enjoy this fascinating numismatic world.
Top Places of Interest for Collectors
Numismatics is more than just collecting coins. The studying of coins and numismatics can be compared with a fascinating trip into the world of history and culture. Due to visiting the below listed places you may get a unique experience and see how modern coins are minted, admire rarities from past eras, and discover new facets of the art of coinage.
Royal Mint, United Kingdom
Opening hours: from 9:30 to 17:30, with guided tours every half an hour.
The Royal Mint in Llantrisant (Wales) is one of the oldest and most famous mints in the world (operating since 886!) It produces coins not just for Britain, but also currency for more than 60 countries around the world.
What to see:
Visitors to the Royal Mint can experience the coin minting process. You can also find an exhibition of rare British coins (including the famous sovereigns) as well as modern commemorative coin collections. Interactive exhibits enable you to try your hand at being a master coin maker.
Fun fact: The Royal Mint produced the UK's heaviest 1kg coin in 2016.
Coins worth your attention
Coin | Features |
Gold sovereign | Symbol of British power, minted since 1817 |
50p with Beatrix Potter. | Commemorative coin with characters from children's books |
U.S. Mint, Denver, USA
Opening hours: Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 16:30.
This mint is the heart of the American monetary system and one of the six U.S. mints, opened in 1906. Coins for the entire nation are produced here, including commemorative series.
What to see:
Here you can learn about the process of creating U.S. coins and see historic dies and tools. The exhibit includes rare coins such as the 1804 silver dollars known as “Coin Kings.” Visitors can also observe the process of making commemorative coins.
Tip: Visit the Mint's gift store, limited edition collectible coins are sold here. Use the Coin ID Scanner app to identify and grade them, as well as find out other features and historical background. Now you can learn everything about your coins in just a couple of clicks.
Coins worth your attention
Coin | Features |
A silver dollar from 1804 | One of the most expensive pieces in the world |
State quarter | Collector's series dedicated to each state of the USA |
The Royal Canadian Mint, Ottawa
Opening hours: daily from 9:30 to 17:00.
The Royal Canadian Mint is popular among people for its innovative ideas with design and technology. It was here that a unique method of minting color-coated coins was developed.
What to see:
The tour includes coin production demonstrations, a visit to the world's largest gold bar (weighing over 100 kg) and interactive areas where you can hold a 28 pound bar in your hands. The museum features coins inlaid with gold, silver and even diamonds.
Fun fact: In 2007, the Canadian Mint created a $1 million dollar coin that sold at auction for $4 million dollars!
Coins worth your attention
Coin | Feature |
Gold Coin $1,000,000 | The largest gold coin in the world |
Maple Leaf Series | Symbol of Canada, features unique anti-counterfeiting protection |
Münzkabinett, Vienna, Austria
Opening hours: Monday through Sunday, from 10:00 to 18:00.
Münzkabinett is one of the oldest and largest coin museums in the world, located in the historic building of the Hofburg Palace in Vienna. Its collection has more than 200,000 exhibits and all them cover the history of coinage from antiquity to modern times.
What to see:
Visitors can see ancient Roman and Greek coins, unique medieval specimens and masterpieces of Austrian numismatics. A separate room is dedicated to medals used for commemorative events and coins previously used in different parts of the Austrian Empire.
Tip: For a better immersion in the history of coins, use the audio guide, available in several languages, including Russian. Visit the museum in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the exhibitions in a relaxed atmosphere.
Coins worth your attention
Coin | Features |
Roman dinars | Antique coins depicting Roman emperors |
Maria Theresa's Thalers | A famous silver coin used in international trade |
Austrian ducat | A thin gold coin that became a symbol of Austrian history |
Additional Ideas for a Better Tourist Experience
If you plan your itinerary wisely, you can combine visits to famous coin objects with exploring local attractions, cultural centers and gastronomic corners. Consider an example of an itinerary that perfectly combines historical value and tourist enjoyment.
Visiting a Royal Mint and Cardiff, Wales, Plan for the Day
You can start your morning with a tour to the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, which is just a 20-minute drive from the center of Cardiff. When exploring the mint, do not forget to purchase commemorative coins in the gift store!
After the tour, head to Cardiff where you will find a variety of restaurants to suit all tastes. Try local specialties such as Welsh rarbite or fresh seafood. We recommend a stop for lunch at The Clink Cardiff, the place is popular for its unique concept and upscale cuisine.
In the afternoon, explore Cardiff Castle, an impressive historic site with a rich history. Its towers and galleries make you feel the spirit of the Middle Ages. Don't miss a stroll through Bute Park, which is located next to the castle.
In the evening you can spend time on Cardiff's waterfront, visiting the Millennium Center and local art galleries. For dinner we recommend the Bayside Brasserie restaurant with stunning views over the bay. At night you can stay in one of the cozy Cardiff hotels, such as the “Hotel Indigo”, which offers comfortable rooms and is located in the city center.
Coin Stories
Well, due to exploring the coin related places and famous mints you are able to combine a passion for collecting with fascinating discoveries. And in all of the above places you can see how modern coins are created, appreciate the craftsmanship of the past and be inspired to expand your collection. And we hope that your trip may become the beginning of new passions and thirst for knowledge.