Copied to Clipboard
United States Mint
Even though the U.S. capital moved from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., in 1800, the manufacture of coins and medals has stayed primarily in Philadelphia for the past two centuries.
Though there are mints in Denver and San Francisco, at least half of the nation’s circulating coins, and most of the commemorative medals, are struck in this building; the trademark “P” on any coin indicates its origin in Philadelphia.
United States Mint visitors get to watch operations on the floor – from high above and behind protective glass, to be sure.
Interactive displays depict the many presidential and honorary commemoratives designed and made here, as well as early mint and coining equipment and rare and historic coins.
At least half of the nation’s circulating coins are struck in this building.
The first U.S. Mint opened in 1792 at 7th and Arch streets, only two blocks from the current facility; it was the first new government structure in the new country.
George Washington, who lived nearby, was said to have donated his own silver to make some of the first coins.
The current building, opened in 1969, is the fourth Philadelphia Mint.
The Mint offers public tours on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. except on federal holidays. Summer hours extend to Saturdays.
With its own displays of rare and interesting coins, the gift shop is an attraction in itself.
Before he died, that stuffed bird in the lobby was the mint’s adopted pet; he was allowed to fly among the coins for good luck.
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.