What is Numismatics?
Numismatics is a field that involves the study, collection, and research of coins, paper money, and coin-like objects. Individuals engaged in this field are referred to as “numismatists.” Numismatics is a comprehensive subject that encompasses various areas such as history, art, culture, and economics.
Collecting, researching, and preserving monetary objects like coins, paper money, medals, and tokens constitutes a hobby and interest known as numismatic collection. Numismatic collection appeals to individuals interested in history, art, culture, and economics, offering a rich and captivating domain.
Numismatic Collection: Coins and paper money are the primary objects of interest for numismatic collectors. However, this field goes beyond mere collection. Here are some aspects of numismatic collection:
1. Historical and Cultural Research: Numismatic collectors gain the opportunity to understand different periods of history and cultural development by examining the coins they collect. Symbols, designs, and inscriptions on coins carry traces of the past, enabling a deeper understanding of historical events and cultural changes.
2. Art and Aesthetic Value: Numismatic collectors explore the artistic understanding of different eras through the design and craftsmanship of coins. The details on coins reflect art movements of the time, showcasing their artistic value.
3. Education and Research: Numismatic collection encourages continuous learning. The process of gaining in-depth knowledge about different countries’ currencies, designs, and histories enhances collectors’ educational levels.
4. Diversification and Investment: Numismatic collections can be seen not only as a hobby but also as an investment. Rare and historically valuable coins can appreciate in value over time. However, seeking expert advice is essential when collecting for investment purposes.
5. Personal Passion: Numismatic collection is shaped by individual interests. Collectors with interests in different eras, countries, or themes create their unique collections.
6. Restoration and Preservation: Collectors learn the importance of proper preservation and maintenance of the coins they collect. Being knowledgeable about restoration and maintenance is crucial for preserving the value and condition of coins.
In conclusion, numismatic collection is considered a rich and enjoyable hobby for those interested in history, art, culture, and economics. The stories and symbols carried by coins aid collectors in developing a deeper understanding of humanity’s past. However, seeking professional advice for collecting and evaluating coins with real value is essential for a successful numismatist.
Why is numismatics important?
Numismatics is significant not merely for the study and collection of coins and banknotes, but also as an important discipline that allows us to journey into the depths of the past. Throughout history, coins have symbolized power, culture, and values. In this regard, numismatics is an indispensable source for comprehending humanity’s past and deciphering historical processes. The symbols used in the designs of metal and paper currency offer crucial clues about the era’s politics, societal structure, economic conditions, and cultural values. Beyond their material value, these coins reflect societies’ values and ideals.
Numismatics also encompasses an artistic, aesthetic, and cultural dimension. Meticulously designed figures, symbols, and patterns on coins serve as a visual history lesson, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of their time. Furthermore, numismatics aids us in understanding how economies and trade were shaped in the past. The composition, value, and circulation of coins reflect the economic conditions and trade relationships of the era. Therefore, numismatics is a multidisciplinary field that intersects history, art, culture, economics, and social relations, offering a critical window into humanity’s past.
Breaking it down into bullet points:
1. Traces of History and Culture: Numismatics carries traces of history, culture, and societal changes through the designs, symbols, and inscriptions on coins, aiding in the understanding of past periods and cultural evolution.
2. Artistic Value: Coins reflect the artistic movements and aesthetic sensibilities of their eras. Their designs and details are considered artistic works with inherent value.
3. Reflection of Economy and Trade: The composition, value, and inscriptions on coins provide insights into the economic conditions, trade relationships, and monetary policies of the time.
4. Societal and Political Relations: Coins mirror the political leaders, government structures, and societal compositions of their eras, contributing to the comprehension of societal and political relations.
5. Collecting and Entertainment: Numismatic collecting is seen as a reflection of personal interests and tastes. The process of collecting and examining coins is an educational and enjoyable hobby.
6. Education and Research: Numismatics promotes continuous learning, providing a wealth of knowledge about various countries’ currencies, history, geography, and culture.
7. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Numismatics plays a vital role in preserving a country’s cultural heritage and passing memories of the past to future generations.
8. Investment Vehicles: Rare and historically significant coins can appreciate in value over time and serve as investment instruments.
For these reasons, numismatics is a versatile and essential field that aids individuals in developing a comprehensive understanding of history, culture, art, and economics.
An Example of Numismatics
Money has been a symbol of power and independence for centuries, and national values have always been depicted upon it. The story of the Libyan 10 Dinar is one of these. Let’s take a closer look at this currency that features Omar Mukhtar, Libya, and the Libyan people.
Omar Mukhtar, who opened his eyes to life as an Ottoman, was a member of the famous Senussi tribe. After Libya was forcibly separated from the Ottoman Empire, the Senussis continued their loyalty to the Ottoman State. In fact, for support in the national struggle, the leader of the Senussi, Ahmed es-Senussi, traveled through Anatolia.
Omar Mukhtar followed in the footsteps of Ahmed Senussi and defended his homeland to the end against the Italian occupation. Known as the “Lion of the Desert” by his people, Mukhtar resisted the Italian invasion throughout his 20-year-long struggle, even at the age of 70. Despite his age, he was a stalwart opponent of the Italian occupation. Unfortunately, he was captured by the Italians at the end of his fight. Despite being executed and the Italians attempting to sever his ties with his people, Omar Mukhtar remains a hero of Libya’s fight for independence and a revered mujahid, continuing to live on.
On the obverse of the Libyan 10 Dinar banknote depicted in the image, we see the likeness of the Libyan national hero, the “Lion of the Desert” Omar Mukhtar, at the age of 70. Omar Mukhtar’s face is oriented towards the inscriptions “Al-Jumhūrīyah al-‘Arabīyah al-Lībīyah ash-Sha‘bīyah al-Ishtirākīyah / Socialist People’s Libyan Arab Jamahiriya / Republic” and “Libyan Central Bank.” Beneath these inscriptions lies the Quranic verse from Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 188: “And do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly.” (Translation of “وَلَا تَأْكُلُوا اَمْوَالَكُمْ بَيْنَكُمْ بِالْبَاطِلِ”)
On the reverse side of Omar Mukhtar’s portrait is the security watermark commonly found on Libyan Central Bank notes. This watermark once again features a depiction of Omar Mukhtar. The portrait is derived from a photograph capturing the moment when Omar Mukhtar was captured and humiliated by the Italians. The photograph represents the instant when Omar Mukhtar stood among Italian officers.
On the reverse side of the Libya 10 Dinar, a scene is depicted where people have gathered in front of a fortress from all corners of Libya, completing the emphasis on the Libyan Socialist People’s Republic. Traditional patterns and the theme of Libya’s desert and land are used in the design of the banknote, creating the backdrop.
