Sydney Mint

The Sydney Mint is the city’s oldest public building, best known as part of the former Rum Hospital.

The building was constructed between 1811 and 1816 and constituted the southern wing of the then-Rum Hospital (today known as Sydney Hospital).

Sydney Mint Museum, Cafe, Shop & Coins, Macquarie Street, NSW

In 1854, a mint was placed on location. The staff who served at the coin manufacturing plant lived in the hospital building nearby. In addition to the mint, a coining factory was also constructed at the back end of the facility. Both structures are significant in Australia’s history and have been linked to key events in the past.

The Rum Hospital catered for convict patients between 1816 and 1848. Interestingly, it earned its name because it was financed with thousands of litres of rum. Today, The Mint is one of Sydney’s most famous buildings. Today, it houses the head office of the Sydney Living Museum, has venue spaces, and has a cafe and restaurant on location.

The Mint is also home to the Caroline Simpson Library & Research Collection, a perfect place for history buffs and bookworms to spend a relaxed afternoon. The library is open from 10am to 4pm. Need to address hunger pains? Head out to the swanky No. 10 Bistro & Store. With a contemporary bistro-style menu prepared using freshly sourced local produce, No. 10 is a must-visit for anyone willing to treat themselves. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant during business hours.

Head downstairs below the restaurant to access an espresso bar, a gift store, and fresh blooms. There is no better place to get your caffeine fix before shopping for the perfect souvenir. The Mint’s convenient location in Sydney’s CBD makes it ideal for venue hire. Its timeless architectural design, coupled with integrated AV, makes it a befitting location.

Entry to the Sydney Mint building and site is free. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more. The reception area, the Coining Industry building, and the ground floor of the Macquarie Street building are accessible for wheelchair users.