The Bavarian State Coin Collection in Munich: a journey through the history of money

The Bavarian State Coin Collection, housed in the magnificent Munich Residenz, is an important museum that tells the story of money from antiquity to the present day. With an impressive inventory of around 300,000 objects, it is one of the most significant numismatic collections in the world.

The roots of this unique collection go back to the 16th century, when Duke Albrecht V of Bavaria laid the foundation stone. Since then, it has been continuously expanded and enriched, particularly by the Wittelsbach rulers.

Today, the museum offers not only a comprehensive overview of the development of coins and medals, but also of early forms of paper money and precious cut stones. Visitors can take a fascinating journey through the eras of monetary history. From the oldest Greek coins to medieval coinage and modern means of payment, the exhibition covers a wide range. Particularly impressive are the highlights on ancient coins and Renaissance medals, which emphasise the artistic and historical significance of these objects.

However, the State Coin Collection is more than just a museum. It also functions as an important research institute and has an extensive specialist library with over 20,000 volumes, which attracts scientists from all over the world.