United Arab Emirates. New Gold and Silver Proof coins Mark Centenary Anniversary of Emirate’s First Library

The establishment of the Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi Library as the first library in the Emirate of Sharjah dates back to the year 1925 where it was founded as a private library by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Sharjah from 1924 to 1951 in the Al-Hisn Sharjah Fort. During this time, it was named it Al Qasimia Library. In 1951, the Library was inherited by the successor of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi who was Sheikh Saqr bin Sultan Al Qasimi and it remained in Al-Hisn— until the year 1956, when the contents were transferred to a new location, built in Al Hisn Square and re-named Al Mudhif, after the host building. After several re-locations, the national library found a permanent home in May 2011 when His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Alqasimi, present Ruler of Sharjah, opened the new building of the library on a location known as Cultural Square, and it became known as it is today, the Sharjah Public Library.

Since its founding, this prominent cultural institution in Sharjah has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural roots and cultivating generations of readers and teachers in the emirate. The library has undergone significant development in terms of its scientific collections and physical expansion.  It has since evolved into a significant scientific and cultural institution, renowned for its unique collection of rare manuscripts, Arab and international books, and references that reflect the advancement of cultural and human thought. This collection also includes historical maps spanning various time periods, serving as a valuable resource for researchers and students alike. A cultural and physical landmark, it reflects the leadership of the emirate's vision of enriching the scientific and cultural heritage for future generations.  This initiative and anniversary is highlighted by the Sharjah Islamic Bank's efforts to support cultural initiatives that embody national identity and enhance Sharjah’s position as a capital of culture and knowledge.

The obverse side features two different views of the original location and building on the gold and silver coins, the Sultan Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Library building centred. Along the upper rim is the inscription 'SULTAN BIN SAQR AL QASIMI LIBRARY CENTENARY' shown in Arabic script. The denomination of 1000 Dirhams (gold) or 100 Dirhams (silver) is placed just under the image of the library and just above the commemorative years 1925 – 2025. The text CENTRAL BANK OF THE UAE is placed along the lower rim in both Arabic and English.The reverse of the coin displays the name of the library, 'Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasim’ shown in stylised traditional and calligraphic Arabic script and which is centred.

Available from the 29th January, both the gold and silver coins will only be available for purchase exclusively at the Sharjah Islamic Bank headquarters. Their head office is located at Al Taawun Street, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.