Investigation of contemporary gilded forgeries of ancient coins
Abstract:
Four contemporary forgeries of ancient gold coins were investigated regarding techniques used for gilding, and the composition of the gold cover and the base metal core. The forged coins are a Daric of the Persian Empire, a Gold Stater in the name of Alexander, and two Solidi of the late Roman Empire. A combination of modern analytical methods such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Probe Micro Analysis (EPMA), X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF), and SecondaryIon Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) was used. The results demonstrate that the coins represent the main three technologies of gilding used in antiquity. The core of the Daric is a silver Siglos, plated by leaf gilding. The Gold Stater was forged by foil gilding using a silver core. The Roman Solidi have a core of either silver or copper and were plated by fire gilding. On account of our results it is possible to compare the forgers' profits made by use of the different technologies of forging.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Theorems of Pappus and Guldinus
For finding the surface area, consider a differential line element that generates a ring with surface area dA when revolved.
Effects of EDTA on End-Point Detection Methods
In the visual method, metal-ion indicators (metallochromic dyes), which have distinct colors in their free and complex forms, are added to the mixture to signal the titration's end point. They form stable complexes with metal ions, but these complexes are weaker than the corresponding metal–EDTA complexes. As a result, EDTA...
Precipitation Gravimetry
In determining nickel by gravimetric analysis, a precipitant of ethanolic dimethylglyoxime is added to a hot nickel salt solution. This is quickly followed by the dropwise addition of dilute ammonia solution until precipitation occurs. A...
Washing, Drying, and Ignition of Precipitates
Sample Preparation for Analysis: Advanced Techniques
Acid digestion with strong acids is commonly used to dissolve inorganic materials that are insoluble (do not dissolve) in water. This method can be useful for...


