On March 3, 1863, federal legislation creating the U.S. Mint at Carson City was passed by both houses of the United States Congress. The Carson City Mint opened officially in 1870, just 12 years after the birth of Carson City. The mint produced coins from 1870-85 and again from 1889-93.
But by 1899 all of the presses had been removed and by 1933 the once bustling facility stood empty.
In 1939 Judge Clark J. Guild would help persuade the Nevada Legislature to save the abandoned mint from the wrecker. This act preserved the building that is now proud home to the Nevada State Museum, which opened on Oct. 31, 1941.
The museum dedicates its efforts to preserving the rich history of the Silver State as well as the history of the state's capital, Carson City.
The museum is located in downtown Carson City, along the Kit Carson Walking Trail, making it an integral part of the history and cultural landscape of the capital.
Visitors can take a walk through time at the Nevada State Museum in Carson City. The museum's collection of coins bearing the "CC" mintmark is recognized as one of the finest and most complete CC collections ever assembled, containing 109 of the 111 different dates and denominations struck at the historic Carson City Mint.
In the spirit of recognizing the museum's origins as a mint, a demonstration of Coin Press No. One is held on the last Friday of every month.
Nevada's history is brought to life during tours of the museum's Underground Mine exhibit and the replica ghost town. Both transport the viewer back through time to catch a glimpse of the state's beginnings.
Delve even deeper to find out when humans first occupied the Nevada portion of the Great Basin, the natural foods they collected and the skills they used for survival. See a reconstruction of a Great Basin cave containing evidence of past cultures and climate.
The museum is home to one of the most extensive Washoe basketry collections including many pieces from Dat-so-la-lee. Abe Cohn of Carson City's Indian Emporium promoted her as the finest Washoe weaver.
The Nevada's Changing Earth exhibit explores the state's geologic history from 1,750 million years ago to 40 million years ago. The story is told through the use of original illustrations together with rock specimens and field photographs, as well as a walk-through Devonian Sea and a mammoth skeleton.
The Nevada State Museum actively engages people in understanding and celebrating
Nevada's natural and cultural heritage. The museum collects, preserves, and presents this heritage through exhibits, educational programs and publications. Many enjoy guided tours, performance, demonstrations and lectures regularly hosted by the Nevada State Museum.
The Nevada State Museum, 600 N. Carson St., is open daily from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For information call 687-4810 or visit www.nevadaculture.org.
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