Itau Numismatica Herculano Pires Museum

The Itau Numismatica Herculano Pires Museum is a specialized museum housed within the Itaú Cultural building on Avenida Paulista in São Paulo. It showcases an extensive collection of coins, banknotes, and medals from Brazil and around the world, spanning ancient times to the modern era. The museum also honors Herculano Pires, a prominent Brazilian journalist, writer, and numismatist, whose personal collection forms the core of the exhibits. Visitors can explore displays that trace the history of money, its artistic evolution, and its role in trade and culture. The museum is compact but rich in detail, with well-curated exhibits that appeal to both collectors and casual visitors. Its location on Avenida Paulista makes it easy to combine with other cultural attractions in the area. What makes it distinctive is the fusion of numismatic education with a tribute to a Brazilian intellectual, offering a unique perspective on the country's heritage.

Don't miss

• View rare Brazilian coins and banknotes from different historical periods
• See the personal collection of Herculano Pires, including his notes and books
• Explore exhibits on the evolution of currency worldwide
• Learn about the history of Brazilian monetary systems
• Visit the Itaú Cultural building, which also hosts art exhibitions

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Itau Numismatica Herculano Pires Museum

Cheapest way inOfficial Ticket: Oceanographic Museum Univali - Piçarras - SC4.4★ · 45 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$16 per personSee dates →Most bookedHerculaneum Small Group Tour and Ticket With an Archaeologist4.8★ · 1,162 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleWalking Tour São Paulo Center: Historical Process Of The Largest City in Brazil5★ · 24 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$113 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Admission is free, no need to book in advance.
• Photography is usually allowed, but check for restrictions near certain exhibits.
• Check the museum's website for current opening hours, as they may vary.
• Combine your visit with other Itaú Cultural exhibitions on the same floor.

A bit of history

The museum was established by Itaú Unibanco to preserve and display the numismatic collection of Herculano Pires (1914-1979), a journalist and writer. It opened to the public in the 1990s and is part of the Itaú Cultural center, which promotes Brazilian art and culture.