Location: Central Bank of Jordan, King Hussein Street, Amman
The Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum, located in Amman, Jordan, is a specialized institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of currency in Jordan and the broader region. Established by the Central Bank of Jordan, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the evolution of money, from ancient times to the modern era, with a focus on numismatics (the study of coins) and the economic history of Jordan.
The Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum was conceptualized in the
early 1980s, with its collection officially inaugurated in 1988 by the
late King Hussein I. The museum was created to document and display the
various forms of currency that have circulated in the Jordanian
territory throughout history, reflecting the region’s rich cultural,
economic, and political heritage. Housed within the premises of the
Central Bank of Jordan in Amman, the museum serves as both an
educational resource and a cultural landmark, highlighting Jordan’s role
in regional trade and commerce over centuries.
The museum’s
establishment aligns with the Central Bank’s mission to promote
financial literacy and preserve Jordan’s monetary heritage. It also
complements other cultural institutions in Amman, such as the Jordan
Museum and the Jordan Archaeological Museum, by offering a specialized
perspective on the country’s economic history.
The museum spans approximately 4,300 square feet (400 square meters)
and features 31 display cases housing over 2,200 coins, banknotes, and
medals. The collection is meticulously curated and arranged in
chronological order, providing a comprehensive timeline of currency used
in Jordan and neighboring regions. The exhibits are divided into several
key periods and themes, as described below:
1. Pre-Islamic and
Early Periods (5th Century BC to 7th Century AD)
Greek, Nabataean,
and Roman Coins: The collection begins with coins from the Hellenistic
period, including those minted by Greek city-states, followed by coins
from the Nabataean Kingdom (notably Petra) and the Roman Empire. These
coins reflect the influence of major ancient civilizations in the
region.
Decapolis, Byzantine, and Sassanian Coins: The museum
showcases coins from the Decapolis (a group of ten Greco-Roman cities in
the Levant), as well as Byzantine and Sassanian coins that circulated in
Jordan before the advent of Islam. These artifacts highlight the
region’s role as a crossroads of trade and culture.
2. Islamic
Period (7th Century AD Onward)
A significant portion of the
collection is dedicated to coins and currency from the Islamic era,
including early Islamic silver dirhams and gold dinars. These coins are
notable for their intricate designs and inscriptions, often featuring
Arabic calligraphy and religious phrases.
The museum emphasizes the
importance of the Islamic period, during which Jordan was part of major
caliphates, such as the Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties. Coins from this
era reflect advancements in minting technology and the standardization
of currency.
3. Modern Jordanian Currency
The museum displays
coins and banknotes issued by the Jordanian Currency Board and the
Central Bank of Jordan, tracing the development of Jordan’s national
currency, the Jordanian Dinar (JOD).
Key exhibits include the first
Jordanian banknotes and coins introduced after the country’s
independence in 1946, as well as subsequent issues that reflect Jordan’s
political and cultural milestones.
4. Commemorative Coins and
Medals
The collection includes a range of commemorative coins and
medals issued by the Central Bank of Jordan to mark significant national
events, such as royal anniversaries, independence celebrations, and
cultural achievements.
These items are often crafted with high
artistic value and serve as a testament to Jordan’s modern history and
national pride.
5. Regional and Foreign Currencies
The museum
also features select currencies from neighboring regions and foreign
empires that influenced Jordan’s economy, such as Ottoman and British
Mandate-era currencies.
These exhibits provide context for Jordan’s
economic interactions with the broader Middle East and global powers.
The displays are accompanied by informative panels in both Arabic and
English, offering historical context, technical details about minting
processes, and explanations of the economic significance of the
currencies. However, visitors should note that photography is generally
not permitted inside the museum, likely to protect the artifacts and
maintain the integrity of the collection.
The Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum is more than a repository
of coins and banknotes; it is a window into Jordan’s economic, cultural,
and political history. Key aspects of its significance include:
Historical Insight: The museum illustrates how currency reflects the
rise and fall of civilizations, from the Greeks and Romans to the
Islamic caliphates and modern Jordan. It highlights Jordan’s strategic
position as a hub of trade and cultural exchange.
Economic Education:
By showcasing the evolution of money, the museum educates visitors about
the development of financial systems, the role of central banks, and the
importance of a stable national currency.
Cultural Preservation: The
museum preserves rare and historically significant artifacts, ensuring
that future generations can appreciate Jordan’s monetary heritage.
Numismatic Research: The collection serves as a valuable resource for
scholars and numismatists studying the history of currency in the Middle
East.
The museum’s focus on both local and regional currencies also
underscores Jordan’s interconnectedness with the broader Middle East,
making it a point of interest for those studying the Levant’s economic
history.
The Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum is described as a small
but informative attraction, often appealing to those with a specific
interest in numismatics, history, or economics. Here’s what visitors can
expect:
Duration of Visit: Most reviews suggest that a visit
takes 15–30 minutes, as the museum is compact and the exhibits are
straightforward. However, those with a keen interest in history or coins
may spend more time studying the displays.
Accessibility: The museum
is located in the Central Bank of Jordan building on King Hussein Street
in downtown Amman, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring
the city’s cultural sites. It is close to other attractions like the
Amman Citadel, Roman Theatre, and Rainbow Street.
Entry Requirements:
Visitors are required to present a passport or ID to enter the museum,
likely due to security protocols at the Central Bank. Entry is generally
free, though visitors should confirm this upon arrival.
Atmosphere:
The museum is described as clean, well-organized, and staffed by
friendly and knowledgeable personnel. However, some visitors note that
the presentation is traditional, with glass display cases and minimal
interactive elements, which may feel dated compared to modern museums.
Language: Exhibit descriptions are available in Arabic and English,
making the museum accessible to international visitors.
Limitations:
The lack of photography and limited interactive displays may detract
from the experience for some visitors. Additionally, the museum’s
specialized focus means it may not appeal to those without an interest
in coins or economic history.
Nearby Attractions:
Rainbow
Street (1–2 km away): A vibrant street known for its shops, cafes, and
nightlife.
Amman Citadel (2–3 km): Home to the Temple of Hercules and
the Jordan Archaeological Museum.
Roman Theatre (2–3 km): A
well-preserved ancient amphitheater in downtown Amman.
Darat al Funun
(nearby): A cultural center and art gallery showcasing contemporary Arab
art.
Visitors can easily combine a trip to the Currency Museum with
these nearby sites for a full day of cultural exploration in Amman.
Location: Central Bank of Jordan, King Hussein Street, Amman, Jordan.
Opening Hours: The museum is typically open during regular business
hours, but specific times may vary. Some reviews mention closures or
inconsistent hours, so it’s advisable to check the official Central Bank
of Jordan website or contact the museum directly before visiting. A
signboard outside the museum reportedly lists opening hours.
Admission: Free, though a passport or ID is required for entry.
Contact: For the most accurate information, visitors can contact the
Central Bank of Jordan via their official website (www.cbj.gov.jo) or by
phone.
Tips for Visitors:
Plan your visit in advance to confirm
opening hours, as some travelers have reported unexpected closures.
Bring a passport or ID for entry.
If you’re not particularly
interested in coins, consider prioritizing other museums like the Jordan
Museum or Royal Automobile Museum, which offer broader appeal.
Combine your visit with other downtown attractions to make the most of
your time in Amman.
While the Central Bank of Jordan Currency Museum is a valuable
resource for numismatists and history enthusiasts, it has some
limitations. The museum’s traditional presentation, with static displays
and minimal interactivity, may not engage younger visitors or those
accustomed to modern museum experiences. Additionally, the prohibition
on photography can be frustrating for those wishing to document their
visit. Compared to larger institutions like the Jordan Museum, which
offers a broader exploration of Jordan’s history (including the Dead Sea
Scrolls), the Currency Museum is more niche.
However, its free
admission, central location, and focused collection make it a worthwhile
stop for those interested in economic history or seeking a quick
cultural experience in Amman. The museum’s emphasis on Jordan’s monetary
evolution also complements broader narratives about the country’s
development, as seen in other local institutions.