The US Mint: United States Coinage and Numismatic Excellence

The US Mint is the powerhouse behind United States coinage. The Philadelphia Mint has the capacity to produce 1.8 million coins per hour, 32 million coins daily, and a staggering 13.5 billion coins annually.

"E Pluribus Unum," a motto found on all United States coinage. It means "out of many, one," the unity of the states within a single nation, despite each state's individual laws and identities. This Moto indicates that the United States is a united confederacy comprising several states, each with its own laws. But, should each mint its own coins?

The First US Mint to Make Money

The United States' first mint — indeed the first structure sanctioned by the United States government. The very first us mint building dates back to 1792, located merely two blocks from its current Philadelphia site. This era marked a pivotal moment, as citizens, wary of federal power and accustomed to state-issued or foreign currency, faced the proposal of a unified federal mint with skepticism. They were accustomed to using coins issued by their own state banks, along with various forms of foreign currency. The suggestion of a single federal mint producing a uniform coinage was disturbing.

A coalition led by federalist Alexander Hamilton resulted in both the First Bank of the United States and a United States Mint establishment. Despite plans to relocate to Washington, D.C., the Mint remained in Philadelphia, cemented by an 1828 Act of Congress, due to its efficiency and the financial impracticality of moving.

The First US Mint was completed in the fall of 1792 in the capital city of Philadelphia. As a new capital city was being built along the banks of the Potomac, it was expected that the Mint would move there. Yet in 1800, when Washington, D.C., was ready, the government did not have the money to replace what was already an efficient operation. An Act of Congress in 1828 ensured that the Mint would remain permanently in Philadelphia.

The First Coins and David Rittenhouse's Legacy

Legend has it that George Washington's silverware contributed to the minting of the first coins, a tale immortalized in John Dunsmore's painting "Inspecting the First Coins." However, the true credit for the Mint's success lies with David Rittenhouse, whose multifaceted genius left an indelible mark on Philadelphia and the Mint's early years.

A popular though apocryphal legend holds that the metal used to strike the first coins at the Mint came from the silver in George Washington's household goods. At the current site, you can view a painting by John Dunsmore, titled Inspecting the First Coins. The painting shows a seated Martha Washington surrounded by the President, Harry Voigt (who would become the first Chief Coiner), future President Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, David Rittenhouse, the Mint's first director, and a few others. Martha is poised to inspect the first coins minted. (The painting, completed over a century after the event, is not meant to be a historically accurate representation of who was actually present to inspect the first minted coins.)

Credit for the success of the Mint belongs in great part to David Rittenhouse. In Philadelphia today, his name graces the city's most fashionable address — Rittenhouse Square, about a mile west of the Historic District. Like Benjamin Franklin and John Bartram (see Bartram's Gardens in this Virtual Tour), he was one of those extraordinary men of early Philadelphia with diverse interests who made manifold contributions: he was a clockmaker, philosopher, surveyor, mathematician, politician and astronomer; he determined the boundary between Pennsylvania and Maryland long before Mason and Dixon; many credit him with having built the first telescope made in the United States; he constructed an orrery, a device familiar mostly to astronomers and crossword solvers — it's a clocklike mechanism that describes the position of the planets as they orbit the sun; and, he was director of the Mint for its crucial first three years.

Expanding the Mint: From Necessity to Innovation

The original US Mint's space constraints led to the construction of a new facility in 1833, designed by William Strickland. Yet, as demand grew, a third Mint emerged in 1901, resembling a Roman temple and housing the Community College of Philadelphia today. This evolution reflects the Mint's ongoing need for expansion and modernization, culminating in the current, more secure and technologically advanced facility.

The First Update

Today's US Mint, while lacking the architectural grandeur of its predecessors, boasts unparalleled efficiency and security. Visitors can witness the coin-making process firsthand, from annealing to striking, and explore the rich history of US coinage through interactive displays and historical exhibits, including Congressional gold medals and the legacy of the Mint's mascots.

The Second Update

By the late 1820s the original Mint lacked the space and capacity to keep up with the demand for coinage. A new mint, designed by William Strictland in the classic style favored by the federal government of Andrew Jackson's era was finished in 1833. It was located on the corner of Juniper and Chestnut,, about a half mile west of its current location.

The Third Update 

Again, a larger Mint was needed. The third Mint, built in 1901, still stands (it now houses the Community College of Philadelphia). It is a block long and has a Roman temple's facade. Marble is ubiquitous. Massive Ionic columns lead to a lobby with vaulted ceilings which were bejeweled with seven Tiffany glass mosaics. The mosaics depicted ancient Roman methods of coinage. Two of the mosaics are seen today at the current Mint.

The Modern US Mint

The necessity for an expanded Mint, coupled with the demand for improved highway access and enhanced security measures, led to the construction of the most recent Mint facility. This new structure trades the warm charm of the original Mint and the grandeur of its successors for a modern, utilitarian design characterized by its white, boxy appearance and minimal windows. Visitors entering this contemporary Mint are greeted with security measures reminiscent of an airport, including a conveyor belt for X-ray screening of personal items and signs prohibiting the use of cameras and video recording. An escalator ushers guests into a lengthy corridor, flanked on one side by windows offering a view into the coin production area and on the other by informative displays. During the self-guided tour, visitors can observe a variety of coin-making processes, such as Bonding, Blanking, Annealing, and more, in action. The sight of annealing furnaces emitting flames and the cascade of gleaming dimes into collection bins captivates both children and adults, who eagerly press against the glass for a closer look, despite reminders to refrain from touching. Interactive buttons provide narrated explanations of the minting operations unfolding before their eyes, enriching the visitor experience with educational insights.

The Role of the US Mint in Coinage and National Heritage

The US Mint, with facilities in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point, not only produces billions of coins but also serves as a custodian of American history and values. Its operations, from the minting of everyday currency to the creation of medals for national heroes, underscore its pivotal role in American life and the global numismatic community.

Visiting the US Mint: A Journey Through Time and Coinage

For enthusiasts eager to delve into the rich heritage and operational intricacies of the US Mint, the Philadelphia facility extends an invitation to explore through its guided tours. This presents an unparalleled chance to immerse oneself in the detailed process of coin manufacturing and to appreciate the historical importance of the Mint. It's a pathway to engaging directly with the physical milestones of American history and gaining insight into the meticulous artistry that goes into every coin.

Adjacent to the tour path, visitors will find an exhibition chronicling the history of the United States Mints and showcasing the nearly 300 distinguished individuals who have received Congressional gold medals, predominantly minted in Philadelphia. The honor of the first gold medal went to George Washington, setting a precedent for subsequent awards to all Presidents, numerous military figures, and a variety of eminent Americans such as Jesse Owens, John Wayne, Bob Hope, Marian Anderson, Walt Disney, Jonas Salk, Lady Bird Johnson, Joe Louis, Elie Wiesel, Matthew C. Perry, Robert Frost, and Harry Chapin, each medal bearing the likeness of its esteemed recipient.

Descending to the mezzanine, visitors enter the David Rittenhouse Room, where they are greeted by a display of gold coins, including the celebrated $20 pieces crafted by sculptor Augustus St. Gaudens, alongside early minting tools and a deed to the original Mint premises.

A visit to the Mint would not be complete without paying homage to Peter, the Mint Eagle. As recounted by Philadelphia historian John Francis Marion, Peter, in the early 19th century, made the Mint his home and became its beloved mascot. Tragically, his wing was caught and broken by a suddenly activated flywheel, leading to his death despite the Mint workers' devoted care. Today, Peter's mounted presence continues to embody the Mint's enduring legacy. It's speculated that Peter served as the inspiration for the eagle depicted on the United States silver dollars (1836-39) and the Flying Eagle cents (1856-58), symbolizing the spirit of history within the modern Mint.

Learn More About the US Mint

For further information about the US Mint, its history, operations, and the coins it produces, visit the official US Mint website. Whether you're a numismatist, a history enthusiast, or simply curious, the US Mint offers a wealth of knowledge and insight into the fabric of American currency and heritage.

• There are today four United States mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point. The bullion depository at Fort Knox is also part of the Mint system.

• Architect: Vincent G. Kling and Associates
• Style: Modern monolith (this author's opinion)
• Built: 1969
• Tourism information:

  
  Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  Entrance closes at 4:15 p.m.
  Closed federal holidays.

  FAQ

• What is the US Mint and what does it do? The US Mint is a part of the Department of the Treasury and is responsible for producing coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce. This includes circulating coins, numismatic coins, and national medals. The Mint also manages coin-related assets like bullion reserves.
• How many US Mint locations are there? There are currently four active US Mint locations: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point. Each location has specific responsibilities for producing different types of coins and medals.
• Can you visit the US Mint? Yes, public tours are available at several US Mint facilities, including Philadelphia and Denver. These tours provide a look at the coin manufacturing process and the history of the Mint.
• What is the most popular coin produced by the US Mint? One of the most popular coins produced by the US Mint is the American Silver Eagle, which is highly sought after by both investors and collectors. These coins are part of the Mint’s bullion program and are known for their silver content and beautiful design.
• How does the US Mint decide on new coin designs? New coin designs are often the result of specific legislation passed by Congress, which sometimes specifies the design or outlines guidelines for a design competition. The Mint works with artists and historians and consults with the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts to finalize designs.
• What are proof coins from the US Mint? Proof coins are specially minted coins that are struck multiple times using specially prepared dies to create a detailed and mirror-like finish. These coins are typically issued for collectors and are more expensive than regular circulating coins.
• How can you purchase coins directly from the US Mint? Coins can be purchased directly from the US Mint through their website, which offers a wide range of products including proof sets, commemorative coins, and bullion coins. The Mint also offers a subscription service for customers interested in certain products.
• Does the US Mint produce currency notes? No, the US Mint does not produce paper currency. The production of U.S. paper currency is the responsibility of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, another bureau of the Treasury Department.
• What is the most valuable coin ever produced by the US Mint? One of the most valuable coins ever produced by the US Mint is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle gold coin. Originally valued at $20, this coin has fetched millions at auction due to its rarity and the historical circumstances surrounding its minting and subsequent recall.
• How does the US Mint ensure the security of its coins? The US Mint employs multiple layers of security in its coin production and distribution processes. This includes the use of tamper-proof packaging, secure transport, and rigorous testing of coin blanks and finished coins to ensure they meet exact specifications for weight, composition, and design.

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