Restoration

Proposed Museum Layout
Chronology of the Mint

Project Goals

The idea to save the Segovia Mint has slowly taken shape since 1955 when Rafael Duran, technical engineer of the Madrid Mint, proposed that the historic coining factory be converted into a museum dedicated to the history of Spanish coinage and minting technologies.

In 1993, the Friends of the Segovia Mint Association incorporated all previous efforts promoting the Mint restoration into one concerted channel. The Association today is the unified voice of concerned citizens, comprised of numismatists from around the world as well as local Segovians and others with an interest in the preservation of what is considered to be the world’s oldest (1583), still standing, industrial manufacturing building; undoubtedly, one of the greatest monuments of mankind in its category.

Project goals take into account the most up to date strategies recommended by conservation experts for the preservation and promotion of the world’s Industrial Patrimony.

Of primary concern is the attempt to re-establish the historic purpose and function of the monument with an adaptive reuse which not only demonstrates and teaches the specialized area of production, but which also results in an end product capable of being sold to help finance operational expenses. Artisan products to be manufactured include all types of medals with their accompanying certificates of authenticity hand-stamped on handmade paper; for sale in the museum’s gift shop and other outlets.

Also of prime concern is the cultural promotion of the monument so that society in general knows of its existence and is inspired to personally visit, read about or contemplate in any other manner its role in the development of civilization. In accordance with this strategy, the Association has proposed that the Mint be fully restored by January of 2002, in order that its inauguration coincide with, and is able to host, the presentation ceremony of the new European coin: the EURO. No other numismatic or economic setting would be as appropriate as the historic Segovia Mint for the ceremonial launching of the EURO; providing a perfect backdrop for the general public’s understanding of the Past, Present, and Future of Coinage in Europe. The cultural program encompassing the entire project would be titled: "Segovia: City of the Euro".