The Currency Museum of Oman, Muscat

The Currency Museum of Oman, Muscat

The Currency Museum is situated in Oman's capital and is solely dedicated to showcasing the historical evolution of currency within Oman. It was established in April 1999 by the Central Bank of Oman, aiming to offer insights into the monetary history of the country.

Within its premises, the museum hosts displays detailing the circulation of coins and banknotes throughout the Sultanate of Oman. Visitors can explore exhibits covering the minting processes during both Islamic and pre-Islamic periods in Oman. Furthermore, the museum provides information on the currency preceding the Saidi Rial, which was the nation's inaugural official currency. Notably, on display is one of the earliest Islamic silver dirhams, alongside specimens of foreign currency, including the Maria Theresa thaler, utilized in Oman from 1801 to 1970.

Included in its collection are Gulf rupees, originally issued by the Government of India and adopted by Gulf nations. Of particular significance is the silver dirham named Uman, minted during the Umayyad dynasty under the reign of Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, representing one of the oldest currencies minted in the Arabian Peninsula. The museum also features commemorative coins released on Omani National Days, as well as locally produced coins known as Baiza Coins. Lastly, visitors can view exhibits of the Islamic ashrafi within the museum's premises.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Muscat. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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The Currency Museum of Oman on Map

Sight Name: The Currency Museum of Oman
Sight Location: Muscat, Oman (See walking tours in Muscat)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery

Walking Tours in Muscat, Oman

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