Although the castle and streets of San Marino are impressive in themselves, the real “intellectual wealth” of the republic and one of the most important symbols of its statehood is preserved in the Museum of Stamps and Coins (Museo del Francobollo e della Moneta). This collection is not just a hobby exhibition, but a tangible proof of San Marino’s sovereignty, since its own coins and stamps are the main attribute of a state’s independence.
The museum was founded in the second half of the 20th century with the aim of presenting the republic’s philatelic (stamp collecting) and numismatic (numismatist) heritage in a worthy place. The collection was moved to its current, modern location in 2021, in a building next to Piazzetta Garibaldi in the historic city center. The creation of the exhibition was necessitated by the fact that San Marino has become one of the most important centers of collectors in the world since the end of the 19th century. The museum was founded with the state’s intention to preserve a copy of every single San Marino currency and postal item ever issued, thus creating a “continuous history book” of the state.
The city’s relationship with stamp issuing dates back to 1877, when San Marino issued its first official stamp series. Interestingly, stamp issuing was not only a postal service for the small state, but also a significant source of income. During the 20th century, San Marino stamps became world-famous for their precise execution and unique choice of themes. This “stamp diplomacy” helped to make the name of the republic known all over the world, and the funds collected from collectors contributed greatly to the maintenance of public works and public buildings, helping the small state to achieve economic independence.
The coin collection demonstrates the republic’s financial autonomy. San Marino has been minting its own coins since the mid-19th century, the rarest gold and silver examples of which can be seen in the museum. The most valuable pieces in the collection include ancient Scudos (the former local currency) and unique commemorative coins issued to commemorate significant historical events. A separate section deals with the modern era. Although San Marino is not a member of the European Union, it can mint its own euro coins under a special agreement. These San Marino euros are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity, and the entire mintage can be viewed in the museum.
Visitors to the museum will see not only simple pieces of paper and metal coins, but also rare works of art. Among the treasures are the first series of stamps of 1877 (the “Yellow Stamp”) depicting the coat of arms of the republic, rare proofs and sketches made by hand by famous artists and designers.
Also on display are historic coin-making machines and tools, showing how currency was made at different stages of technological development.
One of the most interesting sections of the museum is a special archive containing postal agreements with other countries, including the oldest, with Italy.
