The mint of Gdansk in 1795

Abstract

The mint of Gdansk, located at the branch canal of the Radunia, next to the Great Mill, was likely built in the 1620s. Gradually, it was expanded through the addition of more buildings. Eventually, in the 18th century, it occupied a large plot of land between Bednarska St. and the canal. Besides the industrial buildings (the mint itself, smeltery, and forge), the complex also included houses, among them the house of the mint master located on the opposite side of the canal. In 1793, a decision was made to close the mint and retain the one in Königsberg as the only mint in Prussia. In 1795, stocktaking was conducted in preparation for putting up the buildings for rent and selling all the tools, machines, and metals. 175 items were listed and priced. Plans of the buildings were drafted along with detailed descriptions and valuations. These documents allow for a detailed description of the mint as it was in that period.