Royal Australian Mint

At the Royal Australian Mint, you can watch Australia’s coins being made and even mint your own dollar coin. This working factory in Canberra’s Deakin suburb offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the nation’s currency, from design to production. It’s a hit with kids and collectors alike, and the clatter of machinery and gleam of fresh metal make for a genuinely engaging visit.

Highlights & What to See

• Live production viewing gallery: Watch coin blanks become finished coins on high-speed presses – a hypnotic process that’s surprisingly noisy and thrilling.
• Mint your own coin: Press a button and produce a legal-tender $1 coin with a design of your choice; a unique souvenir that costs just a few dollars.
• Coin collection displays: Rare and historic Australian coins, including the famous 1930 penny and early gold sovereigns, are showcased in well-lit cases.
• Interactive exhibits: Try lifting a gold bar, feel the weight of a million dollars in $1 coins, and learn how coins are designed and tested.
• MintCoin shop: Buy uncirculated coins, proof sets, and commemorative releases – a paradise for numismatists.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–1.5 hours for a thorough visit, including the self-guided tour and minting your own coin. The Mint is compact, so you can easily combine it with a morning at the nearby National Gallery of Australia or a stroll around Lake Burley Griffin. Arrive early to avoid school groups on weekdays.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• National Gallery of Australia – world-class art, including Aboriginal and Indigenous works, just a 5-minute drive away.
• Parliament House – climb the grassed roof for panoramic views of the capital, 10 minutes by car.
• Old Parliament House & Museum of Australian Democracy – a beautifully preserved building that tells the story of Australian politics.
• Lake Burley Griffin – hire a paddleboat or cycle the 5 km loop; the Mint is a short walk from the lakeside.
• National Zoo & Aquarium – family favourite with native and exotic animals, 15 minutes’ drive.

Please check official sources for current details.