Musee des Timbres et des Monnaies

The Musee des Timbres et des Monnaies (Museum of Stamps and Coins) is one of Monaco's most distinctive cultural institutions, dedicated to the Principality's rich philatelic and numismatic heritage. Established by Sovereign Ordinance of Prince Rainier III in 1995 and opened to the public in January 1996, the museum is housed on the Terrasses de Fontvieille and managed by the OETP (Office des Emissions de Timbres-Poste).

Collections

The museum is organized into two main exhibition rooms. The first displays Monegasque coins and currency dating back to 1640, when the first coins were minted under Prince Honore II. Visitors can also see stamp printing equipment, including a large rotary stamp printing press, press-stones, and stamp books featuring rare printing errors and colour proofs.

The second room, known as the rare stamps room, covers the complete postal history of Monaco from 1885 — when the first Monegasque stamps were issued under Charles III — through to the present day. The collections originate from Prince Rainier III's personal philatelic and numismatic collections and are considered among the finest in the world.

Visiting Information

The museum is one of the most affordable cultural venues in Monaco. Admission costs 3 EUR for adults, 1.50 EUR for reduced-rate visitors (ages 12-18, students, and retirees), and is free for children under 12. Opening hours are 9:30 to 17:00 daily except Sunday (October to June), and 9:30 to 18:00 daily (July to September).

Location

Situated on the Terrasses de Fontvieille in Monaco's reclaimed-land district, the museum is within walking distance of other Fontvieille attractions including the Princess Grace Rose Garden, the Collection of Vintage Cars, and the Zoological Garden. The Fontvieille shopping centre and car park are nearby.