The Mint

Dating back to 1816, the building now known as “The Mint” has a rich and dark past. It first functioned as a convict hospital and then an infirmary for the poor, gaining an infamous reputation because of its appalling conditions. Later, the building became the Sydney Royal Mint, and thus the birth place for over 150 million sovereigns. Now, the museum offers access to captivating collections that go deeper into the site’s history. The building itself is worth the visit on its own, as it shows architect Richard Francis-Jones’ vision of bringing together heritage and contemporary architectural features.