The Monnaie de Paris today claims the double title of "
oldest institution in France and oldest company in the world
", citing the edict of 864 which officially decrees the creation of a Parisian monetary workshop attached to the Crown. The buildings on the Quai de Conti date back to more recent history, since its installation in this mansion in the 6th arrondissement dates from 1775, by decision of Louis XV a few years earlier. Parisians are well aware of its majestic facade, next to the Académie française, know that for several years it has hosted the establishment of chef Guy Savoy, several times crowned "best restaurant in the world", but are often unaware that a factory is still there. in activity.
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Certainly, with the increase in the quantities of coins to be made, the institution built in 1973 a second factory in Gironde, in Pessac (open to visitors this weekend), which manages large quantities such as current money and medals. tourist
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