Royal Canadian Mint, Winnipeg

The Royal Canadian Mint’s Winnipeg facility is where pocket change turns high-tech. Opened in 1976, this state-of-the-art plant produces every single Canadian circulation coin, plus coins for over 80 countries around the world. It’s a high-volume, high-efficiency powerhouse, minting billions of coins each year, with an occasional Canadian collector coin sneaking through the line-marked with a special "W" mintmark.

This mint isn’t just a factory; it’s a global player in coin design and innovation, recognized for its precise and efficient production methods. Under the Royal Canadian Mint Act, it operates as a Crown corporation, but unlike many government-owned entities, it runs like a business, expected to make a profit-no taxpayer handouts here.

Visitors can get an insider look at this coin-making marvel through a 45-minute guided tour, peeking into the complex processes of coin production from a safe, elevated walkway. For those interested in Canada’s numismatic artistry, the onsite Boutique showcases a treasure trove of collector coins, commemorative collections, and bullion products made from gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

Beyond coins, the Mint’s repertoire includes medals, tokens, and refining services, proving it’s not just about small change-it’s about big impact.