California Historical Landmarks in San Francisco
California Historical Landmark 875
Old United States Mint
5th and Mission Streets
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16 November 2009
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The Old Mint (1869), San Francisco's second, is California's only such Federal Greek Revival structure. Due to unsurpassed productivity, it became a sub-treasury in 1874. Intact after the 1906 disaster, it served as a clearinghouse-bank, thus aiding in the city's reconstruction. Closed in 1937, it was restored in 1972-1976 by Mint Director Mary Brooks
California Registered Historical Landmark No. 875
Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the San Francisco Landmarks Preservation Advisory Board, January 28, 1977.
The first mint in San Francisco opened in 1854 on Commercial Street Near Montgomery Street. It is California Historical Landmark 87 and San Francisco Landmark 34.
The second mint in San Francisco opened at Fifth and Mission Streets in 1875. In addition to being a California Historical Landmark, it is also a National Landmark and a San Francisco Landmark.
The third mint in San Francisco was opened in 1937. Although its address is 155 Hermann Street, it is best viewed from the intersection of Market Street and Dolores Street. The "New" Mint is listed on the National Register.
The Old United States Mint is also National Landmark 66000231 and San Francisco Landmark 236.
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16 November 2009
(Click Photo to Zoom)
Miners brought bags of gold to be weighed and exchanged for currency. Armed guards stood on the balcony above watching the transactions below.
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16 November 2009
(Click Photo to Zoom)
Stamp mills were operated at gold mines to pulverize gold-bearing quartz. This five stamp mill was used at two mining claims in Tuolumne County, Red Cloud and Gold Wedge.
Some other surviving stamp mills are located in Nevada City, Grass Valley, North Star Mine Powerhouse and on the Feather River.