Musée de la Monnaie de Paris
The Musée de la Monnaie de <a href="/destinations/paris" class="internal-link">Paris</a>, or Paris Mint, isn't just another museum; it's the oldest French institution and one of the oldest companies in the world. Since 864 AD, it has been producing currency, medals, and art objects, bearing witness to centuries of French <a href="/culture" class="internal-link">history</a>. Today, it's where you can witness the fascinating transformation of raw metal into works of art, exploring the history of money and the artistry of minting. Here's the thing: it's not all gleaming gold and sparkling coins. You'll also encounter industrial machinery, historical artifacts, and contemporary art installations that explore the concept of value. It is a bit out of the way for tourists but worth the visit for coin enthusiasts. Plan around 2 hours to see the exhibits, depending on your level of interest.