Saudi Coin Exhibition Opens at National Museum in Riyadh

The Museums Commission opened 'Minted Narratives: Saudi Arabia’s Legacy in Coins' at the National Museum in Riyadh. Running until December 16th, 2025, the exhibition traces more than 1,300 years of history through coins, from pre-Islamic issues to the modern Saudi riyal.

The exhibition serves as a visual and chronological documentation of the stories of the Kingdom and the wider Islamic world through coinage and minting. The exhibited coins convey historical, religious, cultural and social narratives beyond monetary value, reflecting the rise of civilisations and the unity of nations.

The exhibition brings together rare coins from the personal collection of Dr. Alain Baron, alongside selections from the Ministry of Culture’s holdings. It also includes contemporary artworks by Swiss artist Zimoun inspired by the symbolism and visual language of money.

Organised across seven themes, the exhibition begins with 'Pre-Islamic Coins', focusing on symbols and meanings linked to trade and authority. 'The Birth of Islamic Coins and Coins in the Islamic Dynasties' illustrates continuity and diversity across centuries. 'Women in Coins' highlights female presence in numismatic memory. 'Artisanal Coins — Minting Art and Culture' explores where aesthetic value meets the economic function of currency. 'Treasures and Coins of Saudi Arabia' traces unification and the building of the modern state. 'Coins and Contemporary Art' presents currency as a source of creative inspiration. The exhibition concludes with 'The Coin That Was Never Minted', reflecting on symbolism and concept before coins exist in physical form.

A public programme accompanies the exhibition, including seminars, workshops, expert-led discussions, and interactive activities for children and families. Dedicated accessibility offerings are provided in partnership with the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts.