Sarner International has announced that it has been appointed via competitive tender to design and build an upgrade to the Royal Mint Experience in Wales.
The project, due to be carried out in phases, will highlight the history, craftmanship and evolution of the Royal Mint, with the completion of the first phase in April marking a milestone in the delivery of the upgraded visitor experience.
The Royal Mint, one of the oldest manufacturers in the world, traces its lineage back 1,100 years, making, minting, and crafting precious metal items from the days of England’s first Anglo-Saxon kings through to the present day. The Royal Mint has made coins for both the British monarchy and produces commemorative and bullion coins worldwide.
The goal of the first phase is to deliver a thought-provoking space that brings The Royal Mint’s history to life, celebrating its ongoing legacy within the Mint’s circulating coin press room. This area stretches over 100 metres long, where every coin in UK circulation has been made.
Visitors will also be able to step on to the factory floor for the first time as part of the revamped tour, offering a sensory experience, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage with the designs, materials, technical processes, and innovations in coin production through a series of interactive exhibits.
Immersive audio experiences will also bring the sounds of the factory to life, enabling visitors to hear the hum of circulating coins being minted and compare it with the slower, methodical sound of commemorative coins being produced.
An interactive guess the weight challenge allows visitors to estimate the value of various bullion coins based on their weight, offering an informative way to explore the values of previous metals.
Caterina De Manuele, creative lead designer, Sarner International, commented: “This first phase represents an important step in reimagining the Royal Mint Experience.
“Working closely with our client, we are thrilled to be part of a project that celebrates the centuries-old tradition of coin-making while highlighting the innovations shaping the future of The Royal Mint. By incorporating a multisensory, interactive approach, we’ve created an engaging environment where visitors can connect with The Royal Mint’s rich history while experiencing its dynamic evolution and commitment to sustainability.”