Coinage with Culture: New Technologies Unlock the Secrets of Numismatics

The Coin as a Cultural Key

The project “Secret Signs and Symbols on Coins,” developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Russia and the Museum of Cryptography, brings together more than 300 objects. Visitors encounter the first coin with an inscription, Roman aurei, thalers, protective amulets, and even hidden-compartment coins.

Each artifact functions as a system of symbols and coded messages. The exhibition is not just about display but about interpretation—teaching visitors to read the signs and uncover who minted the coin.

“For us, it is especially important to show that a coin is not just a medium of exchange but a bearer of cultural code, encrypted in its signs and symbols. The exhibition invites visitors not only to admire rare artifacts but also to attempt decoding the secret messages left by master engravers,” said Elena Marusina, Director of the International Numismatic Club Museum.

Tech Meets the Art of Safeguarding Value

The exhibition design itself deserves attention. Architect Anna Alyamova conceived it around the metaphor of a vault, underlining the secrecy and layered history of numismatics.

The show also highlights how coins have always been tied to the protection of value, linking ancient security practices with modern minting technologies. Materials prepared with the Museum of Cryptography lift the curtain on how electronic money is protected today.

Today digital technology is embedded into every part of our lives—from communication and shopping to our wallets. At the exhibition ‘Secret Signs and Symbols on Coins’ we will reveal the historical links between technology, cryptography, and finance, from ancient secrets to modern digital solutions. We will also highlight blockchain, first applied in 2008. Today it is used far beyond finance: in elections, asset management, logistics, and the protection of intellectual property such as social media images. As part of our collaboration, visitors will gain hands-on insights into blockchain, digital finance, and cryptocurrencies

Lidiya Lobanova

Director of the Museum of Cryptography

Digital installations enhance the experience: display cases are equipped with tablets for zooming in on engraving details, while an interactive “mirror” reimagines coins as cultural artifacts, placing their symbols within the broader context of global art.

Central Bank’s Commemorative Coins

One section is dedicated to sketches for the Central Bank of Russia’s modern commemorative coins. Visitors can even try their hand at coin design, essentially stepping into the role of a medalist.

“For the first time, the Bank of Russia is showcasing its collection alongside some of the finest specimens from the International Numismatic Club Museum. Every commemorative coin issued by the Bank represents a new step in Russia’s tradition of medallic art. To create them, artists study the theme in depth, poring over hundreds of materials and illustrations.

The Bank’s museum houses the most complete collection of modern Russian commemorative coins, and we are offering visitors the chance to explore the best examples, which demonstrate diverse minting techniques,” said Alexander Bugrov, Chief Historian of the Bank of Russia.

From Niche Hobby to Cultural Mainstream

The exhibition bridges history, art, and technology. Its multimedia and interactive elements immerse visitors in numismatics, making the subject engaging not just for collectors and experts but also for the public.

The participation of the Museum of Cryptography underscores rising interest in the security of money, both physical and digital. The educational aspect is also prominent: the exhibition will be included in Moscow’s 2025/26 “Museums. Parks. Estates” citywide competition, bringing school students into contact with cultural heritage.