Standing Ovations: The Old Mint

Standing Ovations IV

Completed in 1874, the fabulous “Granite Lady” has stood its ground through the City’s many transformations — and disasters, including the Great Earthquake of 1906. Between 1874 and 1937, the Mint (known today as the “Old Mint”) was the most active mint in the United States. In 1877, over fifty-million dollars in coins were produced. By the 1930s, one-third of the nation’s gold reserves were stored at the Old Mint.

In 1988, the Old Mint was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and in 2003, Mayor Willie Brown bought the national landmark with a borrowed silver dollar — minted on site in 1879. With keys in hand, SFMHS initiated another phase of interior renovations in 2006 that allowed for special events and activities to take place within the building. In 2007, Jesse Street (adjacent to the Old Mint), was closed to vehicular traffic and converted into a public plaza designed to accommodate a wide range of uses, including art exhibitions, live music and street fairs.

Further restoration of the building is expected to commence in 2012, which will transform the Old Mint into an exciting Museum where visitors can experience the stories and history of the Bay Area through state-of-the-art interactive and educational exhibits, programs and presentations.

In the meantime, SFMHS will continue to expand its ongoing tours, activities, special events, exhibitions and private event rentals — all of which serve to build community awareness and increase the value of the Old Mint as a vibrant entity and resource.

The new San Francisco Museum at the Mint

The San Francisco Museum & Historical Society (SFMHS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the stories of the men and women of this region and how their contributions have impacted the United States and the world. Our goal is to make the rich heritage and diverse culture of San Francisco and the Bay Area relevant, engaging and fun for all audiences. SFMHS is creating the new San Francisco Museum at the Mint. The renovation will transform the Mint into an innovative cultural institution for residents, students and visitors.

Proceeds from Standing Ovations IV — Brava L’Italia at the Mint! will help fund our efforts to present San Francisco’s past, present and future through a broad spectrum of programs and special events that offer exciting ways to experience San Francisco’s history.