The United States Mint produces the coins circulating in our currency today. There are only four active mints in the United States, with locations in Philadelphia; San Francisco; West Point, NY and Denver—and the Denver location is the largest producer of coins in the world! They give free guided tours inside its facilities to show you up close how coins are produced. The tour is best suited for adults and children over seven years old. The mint is conveniently located downtown, and you can get here in a less than 3-mile drive from our Denver Capitol Hill apartments, apartments near Coors Field and LoDo apartments. Learn the history of coin making by visiting the Denver Mint.
What you’ll learn
The tours cover the past and present state of coin manufacturing as well as the history of the U.S. Mint since it opened in February 1906. You will discover the craftsmanship required during every stage of the coin-making process, from the first prototype design to the final production and distribution of the coin. You will also learn all about the monetary system in the United States and around the globe. While the Denver Mint currently only produces U.S. coins, you will also learn about a selection of the specialty coins that have been produced over the years.
The tour
To obtain free tour tickets, head to the tour information window located at the gift shop entrance on Cherokee Street between Colfax Avenue and 14th Avenue. Tickets are only available for same-day tours and are limited to five tickets per person. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to view explainers and presentations that explain the decisions involved in creating currency and take you through the history of the mint’s operations. You’ll also be able to tour the production facility, learn how coins are made and possibly even see coins in production the day of your tour. All tours are guided so you can ask questions and get a personalized experience.
What not to bring
All tour visitors go through security screening before entering the mint. There is not a storage area, so you’ll want to make sure to leave the following items at home or in your car:
- Purses, backpacks or any type of bag
- Strollers
- Food and drinks
- Tobacco products, lighters or matches
What to bring
Phones and cameras are allowed inside, but must be turned off—there is no photography permitted during the tour. While you’re not allowed to bring much with you on the tour—you’re limited to items that fit in your pockets, there are a few things not to forget:
- Your ID: A drivers license, state issued ID or a passport
- Tour tickets
About the United States Mint
The U.S. Mint was founded in 1792 and now employees nearly 1,700 employees. In day-to-day operations, the U.S. Mint produces more than 14 billion coins for use in commerce across all four manufacturing facilities.
Plan your visit
Monday-Thursday 8am-3:30pm
Tour times vary by day
Tour duration: 45 minutes
Get more information here
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