Royal Canadian Mint (Winnipeg)
Manitoba
The Royal Canadian Mint in Winnipeg is a leading coin production facility established in 1976 to expand Canada's minting capacity beyond its original Ottawa location. It manufactures all Canadian circulation coins, as well as coins for other countries, using advanced technology and high-volume production methods. The Mint also produces collector coins, bullion coins in precious metals, medals, and tokens. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that showcase the coin production process, the precision of coin design, and notable milestones such as the creation of the record-breaking Million Dollar Coin. The facility emphasizes innovation and craftsmanship, contributing to Canada's numismatic heritage. Its role as a Crown corporation ensures it operates commercially while serving the public interest. The Winnipeg Mint also reflects Canada's evolving monetary history, including the cessation of penny production in 2012. The Mint is a celebrated attraction, recognized for its educational tours and unique insights into coin manufacturing.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to book the 45-minute guided tours at least 48 to 72 hours in advance to secure a spot, as walk-up tours are limited and often sell out. The best time to visit is during summer hours from Victoria Day to Labour Day when the boutique is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Winter hours offer boutique access Tuesday to Saturday. Note that tours may not always include live coin production due to scheduling. Check for special holiday closures and event days before planning your visit to avoid disappointment.
Interesting facts
- •The first coin struck at the Ottawa Mint in 1908 was a 50-cent piece.
- •The Winnipeg Mint produces circulation coins not only for Canada but also for other countries worldwide.
- •In 2012, the final Canadian penny was minted at the Winnipeg facility, ending over 150 years of penny production.
- •The Mint developed MintChip, a digital currency project, which was later sold to a Toronto-based company in 2016.
- •The Mint has been recognized as one of Canada's Top 100 Employers in past years.
History
The Royal Canadian Mint was originally a branch of the British Royal Mint, with Canadian coins struck in London and Birmingham until the early 20th century.
The Ottawa Mint opened in 1908 to meet Canada's growing coinage needs.
By the late 1960s, the Ottawa facility was outdated and over capacity, prompting the establishment of a new, modern mint in Winnipeg, which opened in 1976.
The Mint became a Crown corporation in 1969, gaining operational autonomy.
In 2012, the Mint ceased production of the Canadian penny at the Winnipeg plant, marking a significant change in Canadian coinage history.
Place Guide
Production Floor Observation1976
A bird’s eye view area where visitors can observe the coin manufacturing process, including high-tech machinery and skilled craftsmanship involved in mass producing circulation coins.
Coin Design and Innovation Exhibit
Displays and explanations about the design process of Canadian coins, highlighting the skill and precision required to create intricate coin designs.
2010 Vancouver Medals Display2010
An up-close look at the medals produced for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games, showcasing the Mint’s craftsmanship in medal production.
Contact
Phone: (800) 267-1871
