Discover the Rich Legacy of the Royal Coin Cabinet
Welcome to the Ekonomiska Museet – Kungliga Myntkabinettet, also known as the Royal Coin Cabinet. Situated in the heart of Stockholm, Sweden, this museum shares its premises with the Historical Museum. Here, you can explore fascinating collections that delve into economic history, numismatics (the study of coins and currency), and the evolution of money and finance.
The exhibits feature a diverse array of artifacts, including coins, banknotes, medals, and various other items that illustrate the rich history of money and its impact on society. Discover how economic developments, monetary systems, and financial practices have evolved from ancient times to the present day.
The museum’s collections are curated by the Swedish National Historical Museums. They offer visitors a unique perspective on the intersection of economics, culture, and society.
A Journey through the Royal Coin Cabinet’s Illustrious History
The Royal Coin Cabinet traces its origins to the royal Swedish coin collections, which date back to the 16th century. Around 1572, Johan III’s chancellor, Rasmus Ludvigsson, began collecting older Swedish coins. This effort was part of Sweden’s ongoing dispute with Denmark over the right to use three crowns in the national coat of arms.
In 1630, King Gustav II Adolf handed over older coins to the collection.During the Thirty Years’ War, the Swedes acquired many coins and medals. These eventually became part of the royal collection. In 1727, the Antiquities Archive merged this collection with others it had obtained over time. These additional items came from redeeming archaeological finds and making further purchases.
The coins have moved around a bit over the years
Shortly thereafter, they named the collection the Royal Coin Cabinet and placed it under the care of the National Antiquarian. During the 18th century, the Coin Cabinet’s collection increased significantly through the acquisition of private collections.
- In 1769, the collections were moved to the newly built Stockholm Palace.
- In 1786, the Royal Academy of Letters, History and Antiquities (Vitterhetsakademien) established itself and took over the management of the collection. During the years 1793-1816, the collections were under the Royal Museum. In connection with this, the Royal Coin Cabinet introduced the title Garde des médailles (French for “medal keeper”) for the person responsible.
- From 1816, the Royal Coin Cabinet was again directly under the Royal Academy of Letters, History and Antiquities, according to the decision of May 8, 1816, and remained there until 1975. The title Garde des médailles accompanied the National Antiquarian in his role at the Coin Cabinet until the 20th century.
- From 1844 to 1845, the Royal Coin Cabinet relocated from the Royal Palace to the Ridderstolpe House at Skeppsbron. They also inaugurated an exhibition that was open to the public.
- In 1975, the Royal Coin Cabinet became a museum with its own director. It was placed under the authority of the National Heritage Board and the National Historical Museums.
This change meant that it was no longer under the Royal Academy of Letters, History, and Antiquities. In 1998, the cabinet became a museum under the authority of the National Historical Museums.
Other Attractions Near the Royal Coin Cabinet
- The Historical Museum (Historiska Museet): Located in the same premises as the Royal Coin Cabinet. Features extensive exhibitions on Sweden’s history from the Stone Age to modern times.
- Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet): A maritime museum displaying the almost fully intact 17th-century warship Vasa. Located on the island of Djurgården, a short distance from the city center.
- Skansen: The world’s first open-air museum, showcasing Swedish life and culture throughout history. Situated on the island of Djurgården.
- Junibacken: A children’s museum dedicated to Swedish children’s literature, especially the works of Astrid Lindgren. Also situated on Djurgården.
These attractions provide a rich and diverse cultural experience for anyone visiting the area around the Royal Coin Cabinet.
