The Mint

This is a grand venue subtly hidden from the main road. We were there for a wedding and you wouldn't even realise you were right in the middle of the city as the open-air courtyard is surrounded by sandstone buildings on all sides.

Expected a bit more.. a few artifacts and some informational boards mostly summarize the museum aspect of the mint. It seems that it has mostly been converted to rental rooms and a venue. For private events this seems like a wonderful place, as a museum..it leaves alot to be desired. I think I spent more time chatting with the nice lady at the reception than actually walking around this "museum". A historical building may be a better way to describe this one. Check out the barracks next door for a more complete and interesting experience.

Very good remnants of old Sydney town in its early days of settlement (occupation!). Parts Mint building and old Rum hospital have been preserved with good signage. It is free and there are volunteers on site to explain little details that one is likely to miss.

I was a bit confused when i first went in. There is a private event being held. Therefore, i was only walking aside for its history.

The Mint is one of Sydney’s most fascinating and beautifully preserved architectural landmarks, especially for those with an interest in history, adaptive reuse, and thoughtful design. Located along Macquarie Street, it’s easy to walk past without realizing just how important—and elegant—this building really is. But for anyone who appreciates architecture, The Mint is a must-see. Originally built in the early 1800s as part of the city’s Rum Hospital, the building later became a branch of the Royal Mint—the first of its kind outside England. Today, it stands as a brilliant example of colonial Georgian architecture, thoughtfully preserved and reimagined for contemporary use. The sandstone façade, timber verandahs, and classical proportions give it a sense of dignity and restraint, characteristic of early institutional architecture in Australia. What makes The Mint particularly special is how it has been adapted for modern use without losing its historical character. The restoration and adaptive reuse project by FJMT Architects is masterful. The way new structures have been inserted—lightweight, glassy, and deliberately contrasting—highlights rather than overwhelms the original heritage elements. The new interventions are respectful and refined, allowing the old and new to speak to each other in a quiet architectural dialogue. The courtyard is a particularly lovely space where you can appreciate this blend—surrounded by historic walls, softened by landscaping, and anchored by modern pavilions. Inside, the use of materials like steel, glass, and timber creates a warm and contemporary feel, while still framing and honoring the building’s past. It’s a perfect example of how architecture can preserve history while remaining relevant and useful in the present. The Mint now houses the headquarters of Sydney Living Museums and a great little café, making it both a cultural destination and a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city. For architects, designers, and anyone interested in how old buildings can be given new life, The Mint is a real inspiration. It’s not just a place to look at—it’s a place to experience. Highly recommended for anyone exploring Sydney’s rich architectural and urban heritage.

The Mint was the perfect venue for our wedding reception! The staff went above and beyond to ensure every detail was flawless, The food was absolutely divine,Highly recommend for any couple looking for a stunning and seamless wedding reception!

I honestly expected more from the mint. There wasn't a tour guide or a map or an audio book just descriptions on the wall. There wasn't anything to see besides the original staircase, a few coins and columns and the coin press which is behind glass. At the back of the building is staff only restricted area and there's nothing else to do. I'm very disappointed and won't come back. In saying that, there's a nice Cafe downstairs and seating area upstairs

Free entry, beautiful grounds, and very informative. The mint is the oldest surviving public building in Sydney. 4 minute walk from Martin place train station .

Stumbled across this landmark while exploring Sydney early in the morning. The Sydney Mint is the city's oldest public building. It is part of the old Rum Hospital. It was built between 1811 and 1816. The old Rum Hospital catered to convict patients from 1816 to 1848. It was financed by paying the contractors with 200,000 liters of rum, hence the name the Rum Hospital. The Mint was added in 1854. This was the first branch of the Royal Mint outside of England. The staff lived within the nearby hospital building. It is free to visit. There is also a coffee shop that has a bookshop attached. The bookshop is in an old vault.

I've visited the function centre here at The Mint for a seminar after work and it is a great space for a function. The function room itself is accessed via the lane to the left side of the mint building. The room holds approx 80-100 comfortably in row seating. There is also a projector and screen which retract from the ceiling, and some huge wooden louvers outside the windows which can provide a darkened room if required. Outside the presentation room is a covered area with bar and tables for the serving of canapes, which opens into a partly grassed area. The venue is very well maintained and would suit a small conference, seminar or networking event.

The mint is not a museum. There are no coins you can browse at. There is no minting facility to view. Not sure why it's even called the Mint? It does have a great cafe on the front verandah where I wondered what I was doing here.. The latte was ok. The building is beautiful in an old-fashioned way. It has the charm that all old building seem to have. Nice to see it against the backdrop of Sydney's skyscrapers. The gift shop is small and I was done browsing in ten minutes. I was hoping to find some unique coins and untouched coins and bullion coins, but prefer visiting the coin shops around the city for that.