Visiting the Royal Canadian Mint, Winnipeg MB, Canada

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Since opening in 1976, the Royal Canadian Mint in Winnipeg has manufactured all of Canada’s coinage. The original Old Royal Mint in Ottawa now only produces commemorative coins. Winnipeg was selected for its central location in distribution. There was a need for a larger higher functioning facility and over 1000 coins per second are struck. The facility is beautiful with sweeping grounds and water area where Canadian geese feed. The striking glass structure was specifically designed to be a rising “hill” in the flat plains of Manitoba. The spacious lobby features an indoor waterfall. There are guided tours to witness first hand how coins are made and the process is detailed. You learn about the metal used and how the machines make them. Canada was the first country to employ color in coins and that process is explained. Those colored and other unique coins are displayed. Canadian coins account for only 25% of production as the remaining 75% is an income producing foreign coins. Canada stopped making pennies years ago. So where does Canada’s plastic currency come from? Made in Germany. You will need sacks of coins to afford the mint coin sets, collectibles and other expensive items in the gift shop. On display is a gold bar valued at $650,000 that visitors are allowed to touch and photograph. Do not think you walk out with it. The bar is secured and there is an armed guard plus it weighs a ton. The Royal Canadian Mint is the highlight of Winnipeg.