The Mint adds to the collection of historic buildings on Macquarie Street in Sydney's central business district. Along with Parliament House and Hyde Park Barracks, The Mint is an example of early Australian development, and is the oldest public building in Sydney City. The Mint was built between the years of 1811 and 1816, as the southern wing of ‘The Rum Hospital'. This hospital is now known as Sydney Hospital and is located in a building nearby.
The Rum Hospital found its name after Governor Macquarie gave exclusive licenses to import rum, to Alexander Riley, Garnham Blaxcell and D'arcy Wentworth. The profits from these licenses were used to finance the construction of The Rum Hospital. In 1854, the site became used as a mint. The Mint also had space to house staff who worked at there, including the Deputy Mint Master, and a coining factory was located in the rear of the building.
Over time the building as received various renovations and restorations. In the early 1980's it became a popular and award winning museum, showcasing Sydney's history with coins and currency. This museum is now closed, as the building was transferred in ownership.
The Mint building is now used as the offices of the Historic Houses Trust of New South Wales and sections of this building are open to the public. Visiting the site, provides an insight into the history of architecture in Sydney, the culture of early Australian settlers, and if you step inside the building you will be in a place where many major events for the country occurred.
If you would like to visit The Mint, you can easily add it into a walking tour of Sydney City, and visit the other historic buildings that are located nearby. Public transport operates nearby, including buses, trains and the monorail. Macquarie Street is located between Hyde Park and Circular Quay, and The Domain and Botanic Gardens are also located nearby.
