The coins on display here were minted during the Islamic Golden Age, reflecting the historical, cultural, and economic significance of the Islamic world during that period. Dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries, these coins were minted under various Islamic dynasties, such as the Umayyad, Abbasid, and Fatimid, among others. They were made from gold, silver, and copper and are adorned with intricate patterns and inscriptions characteristic of Islamic coins.

The inscriptions on the coins are in Arabic, displaying the year and minting city, as well as religious phrases. These coins were used as a medium of exchange; for example, one gold dinar of a specific weight was equal to 22 dirhams of a certain weight. The first minted coin in the Islamic period was the Umayyad Dinar, issued during the reign of Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan in 696 CE (77 Hijra). The weight of the dinar is 1 mithqal (4.25 grams or 0.137 troy ounces).

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Our collection includes a coin minted in 697 (78 Hijra), which is the second Islamic gold coin ever minted.

The Indo-Persian swords showcased here serve as stunning and captivating examples of the art of sword-making. These swords represent a blend of Indian and Persian craftsmanship, reflecting the cultural exchange between the two regions during the medieval period. The swords on display, dating back to the 16th century, were crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations of swordsmiths. Made of high-quality steel, the blades are adorned with intricate patterns and motifs characteristic of Indo-Persian swords. Visitors can appreciate the attention to detail and skill involved in creating these remarkable pieces.

Not only visually striking, these swords were functional and wielded by elite soldiers and officers of the time. These unique and valuable artifacts offer a glimpse into the history of arms and armor, as well as the cultural exchange between India, Persia, and the rest of the Arabian world.

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During the medieval period, Oman was one of the Persian Empire’s primary trading partners. As a result, Omani merchants and craftsmen had direct access to the fine arts and crafts of Persia and India, including sword-making. It is possible that some of the Indo-Persian swords on display in our gallery were brought to Oman by Omani traders centuries ago.

The matchlock firearms on display provide a fascinating insight into the evolution of weaponry. Developed during the early 1500s, these firearms represent a significant advancement in the history of warfare. The exhibited matchlocks, dating back to the 16th century, were used by soldiers and officers of the time. They consist of a long barrel, a firing mechanism, and a stock. The barrel is made of high-quality steel and is adorned with intricate patterns and motifs characteristic of the period.

The firing mechanism is the most unique feature of the matchlocks. It includes a “serpentine” carrying a slow-burning rope called a “wick” that hangs from the serpentine to the stock pot. When the trigger is pulled, the serpentine is released, causing the powder to ignite and explode, firing the gun. These firearms marked a significant step forward in the history of warfare, as they enabled soldiers to fire from a distance with greater accuracy than ever before. Matchlocks were widely used during the 16th century and played a crucial role in numerous battles of the period.

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According to Islamic teachings, men are not supposed to wear jewelry; however, they are allowed to wear weapons. Consequently, weapons have also become a form of adornment in Omani culture. This explains why a male kohl pot is designed in the shape of a gun cartridge.

The pirate flintlock guns on display offer a glimpse into the dangerous and thrilling world of piracy on the high seas. These guns were used by pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries and were essential tools for capturing and defending ships. The flintlock guns showcased here are finely crafted and feature intricate details such as engraved designs and inlaid precious metals and materials like gold and ivory. Visitors can see the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating these weapons. The flintlock guns were made from various materials, including iron, steel, and brass.

The flintlock mechanism represented a major advancement in firearms technology of that era, allowing for a faster firing rate and making them more reliable than earlier matchlock guns. Pirates used these guns as powerful weapons to intimidate merchant ships into surrendering without a fight. They were also used to defend their own ships during an attack.

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During the golden age of piracy, the Omani coast was a hub for pirates who preyed on ships in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Oman. The pirates in the area, also known as the “Sea Dogs” or “Salty Dogs,” were notorious for their raids on merchant vessels and their use of flintlock guns. These guns were a popular choice among the pirates as they were powerful, accurate, and could be easily reloaded.

The traditional Omani jewelry on display is a beautiful and intricate example of the country’s rich cultural heritage. These pieces of jewelry are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations of Omani artisans, and they reflect the unique blend of cultures and influences that have shaped Oman’s history.

The jewelry on display includes a variety of pieces, such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and headdresses. They are made from silver.

It was worn for special occasions, such as weddings and religious festivals, and it was also worn as a symbol of wealth and status. The jewelry is a reflection of the cultural heritage of Oman and it is a valuable artifact of the country’s history.

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One interesting fact about traditional Omani jewelry is that it often includes symbols and designs that are thought to have protective or healing powers. For example, some necklaces may feature amulets or talismans that are believed to ward off evil spirits or protect the wearer from harm. Other pieces may feature designs that are thought to promote good health or bring good luck.

Omani Fossils

This exhibit showcases a captivating selection of Omani rocks and fossils, offering insights into the country’s geological history. Spanning millions of years, these specimens represent various geological processes that have shaped Oman’s landscape.

The Cretaceous Rudists are fascinating bivalve mollusks that thrived 100 million years ago in Central Oman, playing a crucial role in reef-building during their time. A 65-million-year-old gastropod fossil, collected from Khoudh Village, Muscat, provides a glimpse into the ancient marine life of the region.

Copper slag, found in Khadhra Bani Dafaa, Izki, is a remnant of Oman’s rich copper mining history and offers evidence of the metal extraction process. A 360-million-year-old wood fossil from the Carboniferous Age, found in Hoquf, reveals the ancient forests that once covered Oman.

Oman’s oldest rocks, dating back more than 730 million years, are represented by granite from basement rocks, located in the Al Jobah Area, Central Oman. A lump of coal discovered in Sur highlights Oman’s lesser-known coal resources. Lastly, another example of a Rudist from the Cretaceous Age, unearthed in Hoquf, North of Oman, emphasizes the diversity of marine life in the region.

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In the Dhofar region of Oman, the unique geological phenomenon called “desert roses” can be found. These rose-like formations are created by the natural interaction of water, wind, and sand with gypsum crystals, resulting in beautiful flower-shaped aggregates of gypsum crystals. They serve as stunning natural souvenirs, symbolizing the delicate beauty of Oman’s desert landscapes.

The Maria Theresa coins on display is a fascinating coin that tells the story of the global circulation of currency during the 18th and 19th centuries. The coin, originally minted in Austria in 1741, was widely used as an international trade currency and became particularly popular in the Arabian Peninsula, including Oman.

In Oman, the Maria Theresa coin was not only used as a medium of exchange but also became an important element of traditional Omani jewelry. The coin was often used as a centerpiece in necklaces and other jewelry, and was considered a symbol of wealth and status.

European traders used the coins to buy precious materials from the Gulf and northern Africa, which they desired – commodities such as spices, coffee, and pearls. The coins were also given as dowries and were melted locally for jewelry. The Maria Theresa Taler played a crucial part in dowry payments during marriage and was much prized by women as a component in jewelry.

The coin’s popularity in Oman was due to several factors, including its high silver content, uniform weight, and consistent size, which made it ideal for use in trade and commerce. Its presence in traditional Omani jewelry is a reminder of the ways in which different cultures and traditions can blend together to create something unique and beautiful.

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During the 19th century, Zanzibar was a hub for trade and commerce, using both the Maria Theresa Taler and the Indian and German East Africa Rupee as currency. However, in 1872, a hurricane devastated the clove plantations on Zanzibar, leading the governors of the neighboring island of Pemba to counterstamp the Silver Talers and Indian Rupees with a clove-shaped mark bearing the island’s name to validate them as local currency. The islands of Zanzibar and Pemba were once the world’s largest producers of cloves.
This unique piece of history illustrates the importance of cloves to the region and the ingenuity of local leaders in the face of adversity.

Commemorative coins have been minted for decades to mark significant events, anniversaries, or people of historical importance. These coins serve not only as a way to celebrate and honor these events or individuals but also as a way to preserve and promote cultural heritage.

In the past 50 years, Oman has also embraced the tradition of producing commemorative coins to mark important events in its history and culture. These coins not only celebrate and commemorate significant occasions but also serve as a way to promote and showcase Omani heritage and traditions.

The Oman Central Bank Commemorative Coin Collection is a stunning tribute to the rich history and culture of Oman. The collection includes a wide range of commemorative coins, including those that celebrate Oman’s National Day, the Sultan’s Birthday, and other significant events, like the Year of the Environment coin which highlights Oman’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and wildlife. The Traditional Crafts coins showcase the rich artistic traditions of Oman, from pottery and weaving to metalwork and woodcarving. These coins make perfect gifts for collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Oman’s culture and heritage.

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We offer a unique collection of commemorative coins produced by the Central Bank of Oman which you may find by clicking here.