Exhibition - The Insert Coin exhibition: La Monnaie de Paris invites visitors to plunge into the captivating world of coin machines 

By Mulder, 11 january 2024

La Monnaie de Paris, an emblematic institution with an 864-year history, opens its doors to a unique cultural experience with the Insert Coin exhibition. Chaired by Marc Schwartz, Chairman and CEO of La Monnaie de Paris, this unique initiative takes visitors on an interactive journey through the evolution of coin-operated machines, from the 1950s to the 2000s.

The Insert Coin exhibition is distinguished by its structure, divided into eight themed rooms, each evoking a different era. This chronological approach allows visitors to step back in time and discover the evolution of entertainment machines, from the first pinball machines to the latest video game terminals.

The exhibition's curators have contributed their expertise to create an immersive retrospective, blending history, video games and pop-culture. Insert Coin promises an interactive experience that will captivate video game enthusiasts, history buffs and the curious of all ages. Highlighting the social evolution of the 20th century, the exhibition offers a unique look at the integration of these iconic machines into public space, from the bustling cafés of the 50s to the hectic arcades of the 2000s.

The carefully crafted scenography, complemented by iconic objects, transports visitors into the authentic atmosphere of the bars and cafés of the era. Insert Coin also evokes the importance of these machines in teenage and young adult culture through the decades, highlighting their central role in cafés and arcades.

Insert Coin highlights include some forty playable vintage machines. This interactive approach offers visitors the chance to relive the unique excitement of inserting a coin to trigger a game. La Monnaie de Paris will be issuing special tokens for the occasion, which will be handed out to visitors at the start of the tour, for an immersive experience in the original material conditions.

The Insert Coin exhibition not only showcases iconic machines, it also traces the fascinating history of amusement machines. From their origins in 15th-century France to their massive spread across Europe in the 18th century, the exhibition offers a detailed insight into the constant evolution of these emblematic elements of ludic culture.

La Monnaie de Paris, as guardian of historical heritage and arts and crafts, is committed to offering a unique cultural experience. Since 2017, the new Monnaie de Paris museum has invited the public to discover its production workshops and working art foundry. The cultural program, linked to its identity and industrial activity, aims to highlight its historical heritage and exceptional crafts.

Insert Coin will be open to the public from March 1 at La Monnaie de Paris. Don't miss this unique opportunity to plunge into the captivating history of coin-operated machines and rediscover the timeless pleasure of gaming.

(Source : press release)