The Saudi Philatelic and Numismatics Society (SPNS) honored 82 individuals and media outfits at its awards ceremony here on Wednesday night at the King Fahd Cultural Complex.

Riyadh Gov. Prince Turki bin Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz was present at the event. “I am honored and proud to be here with you. Since the founding of the society 50 years ago you have accomplished much, such as engendering an interest in old stamps, bank notes and coins and holding shows locally and abroad,” he said.

Arab News received a certificate of recognition.

The SPNS also celebrated the Kingdom’s 84th National Day, showcasing an exhibition of old stamps and bank notes from various countries issued 50 years ago, and a painting section for children and people with disabilities.

The Riyadh governor said that the SPNS had gained a good reputation in the Kingdom and among similar organizations abroad, and that the government was ready to support it.

Receiving a trophy on behalf of the government, he thanked the Ministry of Culture and Information for supervising the activities of the society.

Talking exclusively to Arab News, Usamah M. Kurdi, SPNS chairman, thanked the ministry for its support, in particular Minister of Culture and Information Abdulaziz Khoja.

He disclosed plans for the SPNS to step up its participation in numismatics and philatelic shows across the world, saying it participated recently in an exhibition in Seoul, South Korea.

“In this regard, we’re counting on the support of the government and the private sector, especially SPNS members all over the Kingdom,” he said.

He said plans are under way to set up more branches in the Kingdom, to create more interest in stamps and old currency, and provide places where hobbyists could meet.

The SPNS has branches in Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, Dammam, Al-Ahsa and Jazan.