880-1400 | The Royal Mint

c.880

Our First Coin

Struck in the ninth century, during the resettlement of London after its Viking occupation, this silver penny of Alfred the Great marks the beginning of our story.

1279

A Move to the Tower of London

By 1279, minting moves to more secure quarters within the Tower of London. Government records show the sum of £729 17s 8½d was paid for work on the Mint in the Tower and references ‘the little tower where the treasure of the mint is kept’.

1282

The Trial of the Pyx
is Established

Coins produced by The Royal Mint are independently checked for quality and accuracy through a ceremony known as the Trial of the Pyx. The proceeding, which was officially formed in 1282, still takes place to this very day.

1340s

The Birth of
Gold Coinage