During Uzbekistan's Cultural Heritage Week, one of the leading experts in the field of numismatics, Dr. Sergey Laptev, delivered a captivating presentation on the role of coins in studying the history of the country. In his speech, he highlighted the unique ability of numismatic research to shed light on the changes of eras, as well as the economic and political transformations that have taken place in Uzbekistan over the centuries.
"Coins are not just a means of payment. They can tell entire stories of the past, allowing us to understand the economic and political changes that occurred in different periods. For example, during the Sheibanid dynasty, gold coins were introduced, while the khanates of Kokand, Bukhara, and Khiva issued silver ones. Over time, we can see how the material changed — from silver to copper, and finally to silk paper and Soviet rubles," Laptev noted.
He also provided an interesting example from the history of the 20th century when, amidst social changes and the formation of new state entities, such as the Bukharan People's Republic, the first paper money appeared, and with independence, Uzbek sums were issued.
Sergey Laptev paid particular attention to the future exhibition of the Center for Islamic Civilization, where the finest examples of coins from different periods of Uzbekistan's history will be displayed. This collection will become an important part of the country’s cultural heritage, allowing visitors to see how numismatic development progressed hand in hand with the history of the region.
However, Laptev emphasized that numismatics is not just a science for specialists but also a wonderful tool for educating the younger generation. "Many young people in Uzbekistan are fond of collecting coins. This hobby can be used as a bridge to studying the history of their country and the religious heritage of Islam, a religion of peace and kindness," he said, adding that the popularization of numismatics could play a key role in increasing interest in national history among new generations.