Hoards of ancient coins can provide a wealth of information about the history of a region. By studying the dates of the coins in a hoard, archaeologists can learn about the economic conditions in that area, the political changes that took place, and even the social and cultural values of the people who lived there.
One way to determine the dates of coins in a hoard is to use the technique of numismatic typology. This involves comparing the coins in the hoard to known types of coins that were issued during a particular time period. By identifying the types of coins in the hoard, archaeologists can narrow down the possible dates when the coins were buried.
Another way to determine the dates of coins in a hoard is to use the technique of metal analysis. This involves testing the metal composition of the coins to identify the specific types of metals that were used to make them. By comparing the metal composition of the coins in the hoard to known types of coins that were made from particular metals, archaeologists can narrow down the possible dates when the coins were buried.
In addition to numismatic typology and metal analysis, there are a number of other methods that can be used to determine the dates of coins in a hoard. These methods include:
Analyzing the wear and tear on the coins. The amount of wear and tear on a coin can provide clues about how long it was in circulation.
Studying the inscriptions on the coins. The inscriptions on a coin can provide information about the issuing authority, the denomination, and the date of issue.
Examining the patina on the coins. The patina on a coin is a thin layer of oxide that forms on the surface of the metal. The color and thickness of the patina can provide clues about the age of the coin.
By using a combination of these methods, archaeologists can often determine the dates of coins in a hoard with a high degree of accuracy. This information can then be used to piece together a more complete picture of the history of a region.
Citations
Abdy, Richard. Romano-British Coin Hoards. London: British Museum Press, 1988.
Bland, Humphrey, and Michael Bland. The Coinage of the Roman Empire in Britain. London: Methuen, 1983.
Burnett, A. M., and Michael Allen. The Coinage of Roman Britain. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1987.
Cottam, P. M. "The Coinage of Britain in the Later Roman Empire." In The Roman West in the Later Empire: A Reappraisal, edited by Neil Christie and Michael Kulikowski, 151-60. London: Routledge, 2000.
Metcalf, David. Coinage and Currency in the Roman World. London: Routledge, 2002.
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