When Did the San Francisco Mint Stop Making Circulating Coins?
Learn about the San Francisco Mint's evolving role, from mass currency production to its current focus on valuable collector coinage.
The San Francisco Mint holds a significant place in U.S. coinage history. For many years, it played a vital role in producing circulating currency that Americans used daily. Its operations have evolved considerably since its inception, leading to questions about its current contribution to the circulating coinage supply.
The San Francisco Mint’s Early Role
The San Francisco Mint commenced operations in 1854, established in direct response to the California Gold Rush. Its primary purpose was to convert gold discovered by miners into U.S. coinage. In its first year, the mint transformed over $4 million in gold bullion into coins.
This facility initially struck various gold denominations, including $1, $2.50, $5, $10, and $20 pieces. Subsequently, it expanded its production to include silver quarter and half dollars, and later dimes and dollars. The San Francisco Mint was instrumental in meeting the demand for currency driven by rapid expansion and economic growth in the Western U.S.
Cessation of Circulating Coin Production
The San Francisco Mint ceased producing coins for general circulation at the end of 1955. This suspension lasted 13 years, primarily due to changes in U.S. Mint production strategy. More modern facilities at the Denver and Philadelphia Mints, better suited for new production methods, contributed to this decision. Additionally, a decline in demand following the 1953-1954 recession influenced the suspension of operations.
Circulating coin production briefly resumed in 1968 and continued through 1974. However, since 1975, the San Francisco Mint’s output has been predominantly directed towards the collector market.
There were limited exceptions, such as the production of Susan B. Anthony dollars from 1979 to 1981. A portion of cents in the early 1980s were also minted there, though these did not bear the “S” mintmark. Since 2012, it has produced circulation-strike America the Beautiful quarters with an “S” mintmark specifically for collectors, not general circulation. From 1962 to 1988, the facility operated as an Assay Office, regaining full Mint status on March 31, 1988.
Current Production at the San Francisco Mint
Today, the San Francisco Mint specializes in producing proof coinage, commemorative coins, and uncirculated sets for collectors. Proof coins are struck multiple times with polished dies and planchets, creating a mirror-like background and frosted foreground. This process creates a high-quality finish for numismatic appeal, not everyday use.
It produces various proof sets, including clad and silver versions. It also strikes commemorative coins authorized by Congress, such as the 2006 San Francisco Old Mint silver dollar. The facility also produces proof versions of American Silver Eagle coins. Despite no longer producing coins for general circulation, the San Francisco Mint remains a significant entity within the U.S. Mint system, recognized as a leading producer of collectible coins.