Museum of the Mint

The Casa de la Moneda Museum in Madrid is a hidden treasure that offers a fascinating journey through the history of money and numismatics. Founded in 1867 during the reign of Isabella II, the museum opened its numismatic collections to the public in the old headquarters at Plaza de Colón, before moving to its current location on Calle del Doctor Esquerdo in 1964. Today, it is considered one of the most important museums in the world in its field, thanks to the richness and variety of its collections. The Casa de la Moneda Museum collection includes a wide range of objects related to the history of currency and the monetary system. Among these are ancient coins, banknotes, medals, lottery tickets, and stamps. The permanent exhibitions are organized chronologically and thematically, allowing visitors to follow the evolution of money from the earliest forms of pre-monetary exchange to modern electronic payment systems. The sections dedicated to Greece and Rome feature ancient coins that illustrate the first monetary civilizations, while the rooms dedicated to the Middle Ages show the influence of Islamic cultures and Christian kingdoms on the European economy. One of the museum’s strengths is the opportunity to see up close the coin production techniques. A unique experience offered by the museum is the opportunity to mint your own coin using the ancient method of hammering, an activity that attracts visitors of all ages and allows them to take home a tangible memory of their visit. Additionally, the museum periodically hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of economic and social history, enriching visitors’ educational experience. From an artistic point of view, the Casa de la Moneda Museum also presents a collection of valuable medals and engravings. These works of art not only testify to the technical skill of the artists who created them, but also offer a glimpse into the themes and cultural symbols of different historical periods. A significant example is represented by commemorative medals, which celebrate important events and illustrious figures, reflecting the political and social dynamics of their time. The museum’s location in the Salamanca district makes it easily accessible to visitors. It is well connected by public transport, with bus and metro stops nearby, and offers modern services such as multilingual audio guides, free Wi-Fi, and a library for further research.