The minting of coins was established in England over a millenium ago, with the first London Mint dating back to 886 C.E. during the reign of Alfred the Great. But it wasn't until 1279, when the institution moved to the Tower of London that it became a thriving monopoly. The Royal Mint continued to work there until 1812, and now in a new permanent exhibition, the Tower of London is presenting
Coins and Kings: The Royal Mint. Cover five hundred years of coin manufacturing, the exhibit will guide you through the processes of minting by means of installations and interactive displays. Learn what life was like for the people of Mint Street, how Sir Isaac Newton was involved in deterring counterfeiters, and how Queen Elizabeth I restored currency back to health after her father's bothered it all up.
Tickets are £20.35 for adults, £17.05 concessions, and £10.17 for children, and includes access to the rest of the Tower.