LAKSHMI KOTHANETH
MUSCAT: A specialised scientific lecture titled 'Restoration and Conservation of Ancient Coins' was recently organised by the Oman Historical Association at its headquarters in the Wilayat of Al Seeb, offering valuable insights into the proper preservation of historic coins, including safe home conservation practices for private collectors.
The lecture was delivered by international expert Dr Al Muizz Billah al Shahawi, a specialist in the restoration and conservation of antiquities at Cairo University. The event forms part of the Association’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about safeguarding tangible cultural heritage.
The session drew a distinguished audience of researchers, historians, and enthusiasts of heritage and historical coinage. In his address, Dr Al Shahawi outlined internationally recognised principles and methodologies for handling archaeological coins crafted from metals such as gold, silver and bronze.
He examined the chemical and environmental factors that contribute to corrosion, deterioration and the gradual loss of historical features.
Emphasising the importance of scientific precision, Dr Al Shahawi detailed the practical stages of restoration, highlighting the need to extend a coin’s lifespan while preserving its historical and material authenticity.
He stressed strict adherence to professional standards to avoid irreversible damage — particularly in cases where well-intentioned but improper interventions can compromise artefacts.
An accompanying exhibition showcased coins from the collection of researcher Abdulaziz bin Ali al Kharousi, Head of the Memberships and Events Committee at the Oman Historical Association.
The display featured a rich selection of historical pieces, including pre-Christian coins, Sasanian and Byzantine issues, Islamic coinage and modern commemorative coins — offering visitors a journey through the evolution of currency across centuries.
Al Kharousi’s collection reflects more than two decades of disciplined research, documentation, exhibition participation and scientific preservation — transforming a childhood fascination into a lifelong cultural mission.
Over time, his hobby evolved into active engagement within the global numismatic community. He has organised and participated in more than 63 exhibitions locally and internationally, gaining exposure to rare collections and exchanging expertise with collectors and historians worldwide.
His achievements include third place internationally in the cultural field in 2017 and a Certificate of Achievement in Oman in 2010 — milestones that affirmed his belief that coin collecting is not merely a pastime but a serious cultural and scientific pursuit.
Al Kharousi preserves both coins and paper currency in specialised protective sleeves designed to prevent humidity, oxidation and environmental damage. Each piece is meticulously catalogued with details such as date of issue, denomination, historical context, security features and printing variations.
This dedication culminated in the preparation of a specialised book on Omani paper currency, documenting its history and technical features in a comprehensive academic format.
“This work reflects my long-term commitment to preserving monetary heritage and presenting it as a reliable cultural reference,” he concluded.
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