Key Takeaways

• The “Minted Narratives” exhibition at the National Museum in Riyadh showcases over 1,300 years of coin history from pre-Islamic times to modern Saudi Arabia.
• Acclaimed collector Dr. Alain Baron contributes rare coins, complemented by contemporary artworks that explore the significance of currency.
• The exhibit features interactive programs and activities, including resources for individuals with disabilities, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural heritage and inclusivity.

Exhibition Overview

The Museums Commission in Saudi Arabia has inaugurated the “Minted Narratives: Saudi Arabia’s Legacy in Coins” exhibition at the National Museum in Riyadh. Running through December 16, this unique exhibition promises an in-depth look at more than 1,300 years of history illustrated through the evolution of coins, from the pre-Islamic era to the contemporary Saudi riyal.

Mona Khazindar, an adviser to the Ministry of Culture at the Museums Commission, emphasized that coins serve as more than mere currency; they encapsulate historical, religious, and cultural narratives that reflect the rise of civilizations and the development of the Saudi state. The exhibition invites the public to engage with history through these valuable artifacts, which parallel the importance of manuscripts and antiquities.

A highlight of the exhibition is a rare collection of coins curated from Dr. Alain Baron, a renowned historical coin collector, alongside special selections from the Ministry of Culture’s own holdings. In addition to the historical focus, artworks by Swiss artist Zimoun provide a contemporary lens on the role of money in society.

The exhibition is structured around seven main themes. It begins with “Pre-Islamic Coins,” exploring trade and authority symbols. Following this is “The Birth of Islamic Coins,” which reflects the diversity of Islamic civilization. The theme “Women in Coins” examines women’s representation in numismatic history, while “Artisanal Coins — Minting Art and Culture” discusses the aesthetic value of currency.

Visitors can explore the story of unification and state-building in “Treasures and Coins of Saudi Arabia,” and appreciate creative interpretations in “Coins and Contemporary Art.” The concluding section, “The Coin That Was Never Minted,” delves into the symbolism of coins that existed only as ideas before being minted.

A comprehensive cultural program accompanies the exhibition, featuring seminars, workshops, expert-led discussions, and interactive activities designed for visitors of all ages. Additionally, the exhibition ensures inclusivity by offering dedicated programs for individuals with disabilities, in collaboration with the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts.

This exhibition aligns with the broader mission of the Museums Commission, aiming to preserve and present Saudi national heritage through a contemporary lens, furthering the Kingdom’s cultural presence on the global stage as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.

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