the main entrance of the building is built in brazilian marble - it boasts spectacular 9.5 metre columns and the interior comprises silver and crystal chandeliers, brass candleholders, granite vases, and a lounge in the style of luís vi. on the terrace there are numerous statues with indigenous themes as well as interesting mosaics depicting brazil's geographical regions.

the museum's collection, which consists of about 1,500 pieces, has been formed in the 1970s, mostly by donations of from the department of federal heritage, including documents and furniture previously used by the ministry of finance, and by donations from family members of former ministers of finance.