Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive microanalysis (EDS) and energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDXRS) were used to investigate the composition and microstructure of some Roman coins from the Julius Caesar and Octavianus periods. The samples were Cu-based alloys with different surface conditions. The microstructural examination supported the chemical analysis data, explaining compositional changes from the surface to the bulk. Compositional data confirm the numismatic interpretation: coins issued by Julius Caesar were orichalcum (Cu–Zn alloy) coins whereas asses issued by Octavianus were Cu–Pb–Sn coins.

Microstructural and compositional characterization of Roman coins

CALLIARI, IRENE;MAGRINI, MAURIZIO;ZAMBON, ANDREA;
1999

Abstract

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive microanalysis (EDS) and energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDXRS) were used to investigate the composition and microstructure of some Roman coins from the Julius Caesar and Octavianus periods. The samples were Cu-based alloys with different surface conditions. The microstructural examination supported the chemical analysis data, explaining compositional changes from the surface to the bulk. Compositional data confirm the numismatic interpretation: coins issued by Julius Caesar were orichalcum (Cu–Zn alloy) coins whereas asses issued by Octavianus were Cu–Pb–Sn coins.
1999
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11577/2468464
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