From rare Bahraini banknotes and Indian rupees once used in the kingdom to commemorative medals and highly sought-after serial numbers, a revived society is aiming to turn coin and currency collecting into one of Bahrain’s fastest-growing hobbies.
The Bahrain Numismatic Society has officially launched a new chapter after its newly approved board held its first meeting, pledging to preserve the kingdom’s monetary heritage while attracting a new generation of collectors.
Board chairman and Parliament’s public utilities and environment affairs committee vice-chairman Mohammed Al Janahi said the society was originally established in 2021 but was forced to suspend its activities only months later due to administrative circumstances before being revived under his leadership.
“We are proud to bring the society back to life,” said Mr Al Janahi.
“Our mission is to preserve Bahrain’s rich numismatic heritage and introduce more people to the fascinating history behind coins, banknotes and medals. Every piece tells a story about our nation’s journey.”
He explained that the society focuses primarily on Bahraini coins, banknotes and historical currency while also promoting the study and collection of international currencies from countries including the US, the UK and India.
“Our members collect specimens from around the world, but Bahrain will always remain at the heart of our work,” he added.
“We want to document our monetary history, exchange knowledge with collectors internationally and ensure this important heritage is passed on to future generations.”
Society treasurer Ahmed Al Sairafi said the organisation hoped to unite collectors from all backgrounds.
“There are many people who quietly collect coins and banknotes,” he said.
“The society gives them a place to share their passion, exchange information and preserve valuable pieces of history. Collecting currency is not only enjoyable but also educational.”
Mr Al Sairafi highlighted several milestones in Bahrain’s monetary history, noting that the first series of Bahraini banknotes included the historic 100 fils and quarter dinar denominations.
He also pointed out that before the introduction of Bahrain’s national currency, the Indian rupee circulated widely throughout the kingdom and remains an important chapter in the country’s financial history.
Among the highlights displayed during the meeting was an impressive collection by board member Abdulrahim Bastaki, who showcased banknotes with highly distinctive serial numbers that are prized by collectors due to their rarity.
Board member Dr Abdulhamid Akbari presented commemorative medals issued over the years by the former Bahrain Monetary Agency, now the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), marking significant national occasions and milestones.
Society secretary-general Dr Khalid Al Humood said the association wanted to change public perceptions about the hobby.
“Numismatics is fun, educational and can also become a worthwhile investment,” he said.
“We want to encourage young people and families to discover this hobby and appreciate the stories behind every coin and banknote.”
During its inaugural board meeting, members also discussed promoting Bahrain’s long monetary history through exhibitions, lectures and cultural events inside and outside the kingdom.
The society intends to strengthen ties with similar organisations across the GCC countries by exchanging expertise and participating in regional coin and currency exhibitions whenever possible.
Committees were also formed to oversee activities planned for the 2026-2028 term.
Future plans under discussion include organising Bahrain’s first major international numismatic exhibition, launching educational workshops for schools and universities, publishing research on Bahrain’s currency history, creating a digital archive of rare Bahraini coins and banknotes, issuing collector guides, hosting appraisal events, and developing partnerships with museums and cultural institutions to showcase the kingdom’s remarkable monetary legacy.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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