History of the Carson City Mint
When Nevada visitors consider the state’s connection to money, casinos and gambling may be the first associations that come to mind. Carson City, Nevada, however, has a deeper connection through a U.S. Mint. Constructed in December 1869, it was built in response to one of the largest silver discoveries in United States history, the Comstock Lode in nearby Virginia City, Nevada. Only six years after Nevada joined the Union as the 36th state, its citizens marked the start of a new era for Carson City.
Carson City Mint Construction
Architect Alfred B. Mullet designed the Carson City Mint during the Renaissance Revival era. He used sandstone, giving the mint its distinctive appearance. After becoming the supervising architect for the United States Treasury Department, Mullet’s successful projects led to designs for several additional notable buildings, including the San Francisco Mint in San Francisco, California.
Carson City Mint Production
Abraham Curry, regarded as Carson City’s founding father, supervised the first coins made at the Carson City Mint. On February 11, 1870, the “Seated Liberty” coins rolled off the press with “CC” mintmarks. Across its full operating life, the Mint made 57 types of gold coins and eight separate denominations. The year 1876 was probably its peak production year, because more coins were struck then than in any other year.
Carson City Mint Closing
Before coin production ended permanently in 1893, the Carson City Mint experienced several temporary shutdowns. Its formal Mint designation was removed in 1899. The structure continued operating as an assay office until 1933, then was sold to the state in 1939. At the time this article was published, the building functioned as the Nevada State Museum and welcomed tourists daily.
When this article was originally published, Atlanta Gold & Coin Buyers stated that it understood the excitement of finding a rare or valuable coin. Readers who had acquired such a coin, or who were curious about others in their collection, were invited to call 404-236-9744 to learn about buying and selling numismatic coins.
