Almacen El Centavo Menos

Almacen El Centavo Menos is a small, offbeat museum located in the heart of Cartagena's old town, just off the Plaza de la Proclamacion. The museum occupies a historic building that once housed a famous general store known for selling items for 'one centavo less' than other shops. Today, it showcases a fascinating collection of coins, banknotes, and artifacts that trace Colombia's monetary history from pre-Columbian times to the present. Visitors can see rare gold coins, early paper money, and even counterfeit currency. The museum's intimate size and quirky theme make it a unique stop for history buffs and curious travelers. The staff are knowledgeable and often share entertaining anecdotes about the store's original owner and the economic history of Cartagena. While not a major attraction, it offers a charming glimpse into local commerce and culture.

Don't miss

• Rare pre-Columbian gold coins and ingots
• A display of counterfeit money and anti-counterfeiting measures
• The original storefront and vintage cash register
• Interactive exhibits on inflation and currency design
• A small gift shop selling replica coins and souvenirs

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Allow about 45 minutes, it's a small museum with focused exhibits.
• Photography is allowed, but flash may be prohibited near sensitive items.
• Spanish-language descriptions dominate; English audio guides may be available upon request.
• Combine with a visit to nearby Plaza de la Proclamacion and the Gold Museum for a historical morning.

A bit of history

The building dates back to the colonial era and was originally a general store famous for pricing items one centavo below competitors. The museum opened to preserve this legacy and showcase Colombia's numismatic history, including coins from the Spanish colonial period and early republic.