The silver 'thaler' coins minted here from 1520 provided the linguistic origin for the word 'dollar'.
Georgius Agricola wrote his foundational work, 'De re metallica', while residing in Jáchymov during the 16th century.
The building was constructed specifically to consolidate minting operations following the massive influx of silver discovered in the valley.
Marie Curie utilized pitchblende sourced from the Jáchymov mines to conduct her groundbreaking research into radioactivity.
The museum serves as a repository for the region’s complex transition from silver mining to uranium exploitation during the Cold War.
The Royal Mint in Jáchymov, now a branch of the Karlovy Vary Museum, is housed in a Renaissance-style building originally constructed between 1534 and 1536. It served as the central mint for the Kingdom of Bohemia, where the Jáchymov thaler was minted, the coin that eventually gave its name to the American dollar. The museum documents the local mining history, focusing on the extraction of silver and the later discovery of uranium. Exhibitions detail the life and work of Georgius Agricola, the father of mineralogy, who practiced as a physician in the town. Visitors can explore the historical minting process and learn about the infamous 'Red Tower of Death' and forced labor camps in the region. The permanent collection highlights the geology of the Ore Mountains and the evolution of mining technology. Its exhibits also cover the historical influence of the Schlick family, who oversaw the initial minting operations.
The internal courtyard, which showcases original Renaissance masonry and architectural details.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the town’s historical mining tunnels.
Inquire about the specific guided tours of the minting machinery if available during your visit.
Visit the upstairs exhibits first to establish the chronological history of the town before viewing the industrial displays.
Do not mistake the modern spa facilities in Jáchymov for the historic mining museum; the museum is specifically located in the Royal Mint building.
Typically closed on Mondays.
