In 1965, in preparation for the new dollar, released into circulation in 1966, Australia invited Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh to Deakin for the inaugural opening of the Royal Australian Mint. Although it was not responsible for note production, the factory has made each and every coin in circulation since operations began. Every Australian dollar medallion and souvenir coin is minted here too.
Learn about the entire minting process, travel back in time to see the history of the dollar, then start your very own collection with a commemorative souvenir.
The free tour allows visitors to get up-close-and-personal to one of the world’s most advanced industrial robots, Titan, which is accompanied by several specialist staff and support robots in the production of up to two million coins per day. Wander through the factory and follow the process that has been responsible for minting 15 billion Australian coins. Then take a seat in the viewing theatre to be visually guided through the process in even greater detail.
Find the visitor coin press before going to view the National Coin Collection and become a part of the team by minting your very one $1 coin.
Take a trip through the history of the dollar, which is housed in the National Coin Collection. A specimen of every coin ever made is on display here, dating back to the 19th Century, including forgeries and special editions.
The gift shop is packed with commemorative coins, medallions and gift packs, which include a wide range of special editions. They are the perfect gift or memorable souvenir to take back home.
Less than seven kilometres from the central business district in Canberra, The Royal Mint is in the heart of Deakin and can easily be accessed by ACTION buses which travel daily from the business district and stop right outside the mint. Visitors who are coming by car can make use of free on-site parking.
The factory doors only close on Christmas Day and on Good Friday but it doesn’t actually operate at the weekend. Tours run two times a day from Monday to Friday and three times a day on Saturdays and Sunday. Admission is free all year round.
