Discover exactly where your money comes from at the United States Mint in Philadelphia. This massive facility produces at least half of the nation’s circulating coins. Families can take a fascinating, free self-guided tour right above the active factory floor, making it a perfect, educational indoor activity.
The Self-Guided Tour
Your visit takes you 40 feet above the active production floor. From this elevated vantage point, you can look down to watch the manufacturing process in real-time. Because it is a self-guided experience, you can move entirely at your family’s own pace. The full tour typically takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Must-See Historical Artifacts
Beyond the modern factory floor, the Mint houses incredible historical displays.
- The First Coining Press: View the actual hand-operated press used to strike the nation’s very first coins in 1792.
- Peter the Mint Eagle: Kids love seeing Peter, a real Bald Eagle who made the first United States Mint his home. Today’s Mint artists still study him when working on new eagle designs.
- Tiffany Mosaics: Marvel at seven stunning, five-foot glass mosaics created by Tiffany of New York. These historic treasures highlight ancient Roman coining processes.
The Gift Shop & Change Machines
Before you leave, make sure to visit the gift shop located in the main lobby. It offers a fantastic selection of United States Mint Coin Sets, commemorative coins, and numismatic collectibles. Additionally, you will find incredibly popular change machines located just outside the shop. These machines allow you to exchange paper money for the absolute latest quarters at cost price, giving you four uncirculated quarters for every dollar.
Historic Old City Pairings
Because the Mint sits right in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Old City, you can easily turn this into a full day trip.
- Independence Mall: You are just a short walk away from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Jewish History: The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is located right in the neighborhood. Additionally, you can easily walk to Congregation Mikveh Israel, which sits just two-tenths of a mile away from the Mint.
- Betsy Ross House: Take a stroll to see the historic site where Betsy Ross reportedly lived when she sewed the first American flag.
Chol Hamoed Pro-Tips
- Security Check: All visitors are required to enter through a metal detector. Prohibited items include weapons and large packages. Visitors have reported being asked for ID as well.
- No Photography: For security reasons, photography, smoking, eating, and drinking are strictly prohibited inside.
- Accessibility: The entire public tour and store are completely accessible to visitors with special needs. Wheelchairs are also available on-site with no reservation necessary.
Website: usmint.gov
Address: Located at 5th and Arch streets, Philadelphia, PA.
