Once inside, imagine the clatter of coins being struck at the Old San Francisco Mint. This wasn’t just any mint. It was a fortress of finance. Built in 1874, the Old San Francisco Mint quickly earned the nickname “The Granite Lady”.
However, the nickname is a bit misleading. Most of its exterior is actually sandstone from British Columbia. Only the basement is granite. Regardless, the Old San Francisco Mint was designed to be imposing and secure. Its Greek Revival style reflects its purpose. Alfred B. Mullett designed it with a sober Doric order.
Construction began in 1869. It cost over $2 million. The Old San Francisco Mint features a central courtyard. This courtyard proved crucial during the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire. The well within the courtyard provided water to fight the flames.
The Old San Francisco Mint stood firm while much of the city crumbled. Its concrete and granite foundation prevented tunneling into its vaults. Inside those vaults lay a third of the United States’ gold reserves. That was about $300 million. Superintendent Frank A. Leach and his men worked hard. They protected the building and its precious contents.
The Old San Francisco Mint became a symbol of resilience. It resumed operations quickly. This helped restore confidence in San Francisco’s economy. Coining was interrupted due to the disruption of the gas works. The mint continued striking coins here until 1937.
Later, in 1961, the Old San Francisco Mint was named a National Historic Landmark. It became a California Historical Landmark in 1974. For a time, it was open to visitors as a museum. Exhibits told its rich history.
In 2003, the federal government sold the Old San Francisco Mint to the city for just one dollar. That dollar was an 1879 silver dollar minted here. The plan was to create the San Francisco Museum at the Mint. Renovations began.
Today, the Old San Francisco Mint is used for special events. These events keep its history alive. The California Historical Society is working to restore and preserve it. The Old San Francisco Mint stands as a reminder of San Francisco’s strength. It embodies the city’s ability to rebuild and thrive. Its walls could tell a thousand tales of gold, fire, and resilience.