The aims of the Society are to promote the systematic study of the coins, medals and currency, both ancient and modern, of India, the Far East, the Islamic countries and their non-Western predecessors. It was founded in 1970 and its membership of almost 600 people are spread over approximately 40 countries.
Membership is individual.
It is open to anyone with a genuine interest in the numismatic series of any of these areas. Dealer members are expected to maintain high ethical standards. Members are required to permit the publication of their names, addresses and numismatic interests, the circulation of this information being confidential and restricted to members of the Society. Unlike most societies, O.N.S. has no controlling organisation and no hierarchy of officers. The Editors, Treasurer and Secretaries are the minimum appointments necessary for the production of accurate information and the maintenance of the list of members.