Uppsala University Coin Cabinet

Uppsala University Coin Cabinet: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Uppsala Historical Sites

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Situated in the heart of Uppsala, Sweden, the Uppsala University Coin Cabinet is one of Scandinavia’s most important numismatic collections. Its holdings—spanning from ancient coinage to modern digital currencies—offer an insightful journey through the history of money, Swedish heritage, and global economic development. Housed primarily in the Gustavianum museum, the Cabinet attracts scholars, students, and visitors eager to discover the evolution of currency and the stories these artifacts tell. This guide provides comprehensive information on the Cabinet’s history, visiting hours, ticket options, accessibility, collection highlights, and practical travel tips—ensuring you have everything you need to plan an enriching visit.

For the most up-to-date information, consult official resources before your trip (Uppsala University Coin Cabinet – Gustavianum, Alvin Portal, Uppsala University Museum of Evolution).

Introduction
Historical Background and Significance
Academic and Research Contributions
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Collection Highlights
Exhibitions and Public Programs
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Background and Significance

The Uppsala University Coin Cabinet traces its roots to the 17th century, with formal establishment around 1750 through major donations by Carl Ehrenpreus and Queen Lovisa Ulrika (Wikipedia). These early gifts laid the foundation for what would become one of Sweden’s most extensive numismatic collections. The Cabinet’s development was influenced by Renaissance traditions of coin collecting, aligning with Uppsala University’s academic mission.

Today, the Cabinet houses approximately 40,000 coins, medals, and currency-related objects, covering a broad chronological and geographical range. Its displays bring together Viking Age silver hoards, medieval Nordic coinage, rare Swedish copper plate money, and international coins—from ancient Greece and Rome to early American dollars and modern forms of currency (Gustavianum – The Coin Cabinet).

Academic and Research Contributions

Uppsala University’s Coin Cabinet is not just a museum—it is an active center for numismatic research and education:

Numismatic Scholarship: The Cabinet has supported academic inquiry since the 17th century, with the first coin-focused thesis published in 1679 (Wikipedia).
Publications: Collections are catalogued in the Studia Numismatica Upsaliensia monograph series and working papers (Gustavianum – The Coin Cabinet).
Library and Digital Access: A specialized library is available on-site, and thousands of high-quality images have been digitized and made accessible via the Alvin Portal.
Expert Leadership: The Cabinet’s curators, including Dr. Ragnar Hedlund (Uppsala University Staff – Ragnar Hedlund), ensure the collection remains a hub for research and scholarly collaboration.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Location

Address: Biskopsgatan 3, Uppsala—Centrally located near other major historical sites (Trek Zone).

Visiting Hours

May–August: Tuesday–Sunday
September: Friday–Sunday
Other Months: Hours may be more limited; always confirm current schedules on the official website or WhichMuseum.

Some exhibition spaces in the Museum of Evolution may have different opening hours (Uppsala University Museum of Evolution).

Tickets

Standard Admission: Entry fees are modest; specific prices may vary and are best checked in advance or on arrival.
Discounts: Reduced rates are typically available for students, seniors, and groups.
Free Admission: Some exhibitions (especially in the Museum of Evolution) may be free (WhichMuseum).

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: The main museum areas are generally accessible, with ramps and elevators where available. Due to the historic building, some spaces may be restricted—contact the museum ahead for assistance.
Amenities: Basic facilities such as restrooms are available; nearby Gustavianum offers additional amenities and a museum shop (Destination Uppsala).

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Available by appointment and during special exhibitions; booking in advance is recommended.
Special Events: Themed exhibitions, lectures, and workshops occur throughout the year, especially during university open days and cultural festivals.

Collection Highlights

The Cabinet’s collection is internationally significant, with strengths in:

Ancient Coins: Greek, Roman, Chinese, and Islamic coins.
Viking Age and Medieval Swedish Coins: Including Olof Skötkonung pennies and silver hoards.
Early Modern and Modern Swedish Currency: Unique copper plate money and coins from the Vasa dynasty.
International Coins and Banknotes: Rare Islamic dinars, Asian cash coins, early American dollars.
Medals and Tokens: Commemorative pieces, notgeld, and emergency money reflecting economic and political history.

Thousands of objects are digitized and viewable through the Alvin Digital Collections.

Exhibitions and Public Programs

Rotating Exhibitions: The Cabinet regularly curates themed displays within the Gustavianum and Museum of Evolution.
Public Programs: Includes lectures, workshops, and educational tours for all ages.
Academic Engagement: The Cabinet supports research, hosts visiting scholars, and contributes to university teaching.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Pair your visit to the Coin Cabinet with other Uppsala historical sites:

Uppsala Cathedral: Sweden’s largest cathedral, just minutes away.
Gustavianum Museum: Archaeology, history, and science exhibitions.
Carolina Rediviva Library: Home to the famous Silver Bible.
The Linnaeus Garden: Celebrates the life of botanist Carl Linnaeus.
Upplandsmuseet: Regional history museum.

Getting There: The museum is walkable from Uppsala’s central train station; public transport and bike options are convenient. Limited street parking is available (Trek Zone).

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Museum Layout: Exhibits are arranged chronologically, with detailed bilingual labels (Swedish/English).
Duration: Visits typically last 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on interest.
Crowds: Quieter on weekday mornings or outside peak seasons.
Photography: Generally allowed for personal use; flash and tripods may be restricted.
Food and Shopping: No on-site café/shop, but plenty of options nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Uppsala University Coin Cabinet visiting hours?
A: May–August: Tuesday–Sunday; September: Friday–Sunday; always check latest info (WhichMuseum).

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Admission is modest, sometimes free; inquire directly or check the official website.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Most areas are accessible, but some limitations exist due to the historic building. Contact staff for details.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment or during special events; book in advance.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Usually permitted for personal use; ask staff for specifics.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Uppsala Cathedral, Gustavianum, Carolina Rediviva, Linnaeus Garden, Upplandsmuseet.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Uppsala University Coin Cabinet is a must-see for anyone interested in numismatics, Swedish history, or global heritage. Its rich collections, central location, and commitment to education make it an ideal destination for scholars, families, and tourists alike. For the best experience:

Confirm visiting hours and ticket information in advance.
Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights.
Pair your visit with other Uppsala historical sites.
Explore the digitized collections online via the Alvin portal.

Download the Audiala app for interactive guides and up-to-date visitor information, and follow the museum’s social media channels for news and events.