The Intersection of Numismatics and Archaeology: A conservator's Perspective
As a conservator with over fifteen years of experience in numismatics—meaning an average of 30-40 hours per week of interactions with a diverse cross-section of coin collectors—I have observed a correlation between collectors and a general interest in history, often including archaeology. However, the detailed intricacies of my role and the broader subject of numismatics and archaeology require further elaboration. This article seeks to explore the relationship between these fields and the practical challenges faced in the conservation of ancient coins.
Professions in Coin Studies
While my primary role as a conservator involves preserving and cleaning coins, it is important to note that there are other professionals involved in coin studies, including archaeologists, archaeometallurgists, and numismatists. Archaeologists are particularly crucial, as they often deal with vast quantities of coins, sometimes numbering in the thousands, such as the 10,927 coins mentioned in the original text. The challenge lies in balacing the preservation of such large quantities of coins with the meticulous cleaning that collectors and archaeologists require.
Conservator's Role
Conservators play a pivotal role in this process. For instance, the task of cleaning a significant number of coins, such as the two important coins that required seven days of work, is part of our daily routine. We work closely with archaeologists to ensure that the cleaning process does not alter the historical integrity of the coins. For a site that produces such a large number of coins, x-raying and mechanical cleaning are often the best methods to preserve and reveal the necessary details.
The Use of Coins in Archaeology
Coins are invaluable tools in archaeology due to their dating capabilities. However, it is crucial to understand the limitations of using individual coins as a dating device. Coins can be lost, found, and lost again, making them less than a hundred percent reliable for dating. For example, a Roman coin found here in New Zealand, specifically a coin of Tiberius, was dated to a 19th-century context. This highlights the importance of a broader context in historical analysis.
When dealing with large quantities of coins, such as those found in a Roman villa in Britain, analyzing the distribution of their ages can provide insights into the history of the site. However, this process moves beyond basic chronological use of coins, becoming a more refined study of numismatics itself.
Case Studies in Numismatics
One interesting case is the discovery of Arab coins in Viking contexts in northwestern Europe. These coins suggest that the Norse reached the Middle East via the great rivers of eastern Europe, a significant insight into the trade networks of the time. Another example is the distribution of coins found in the Sutton Hoo ship burial, which suggests that the man buried there was known to a wide audience due to the richness of the grave furnishings.
The small inscriptions on coins also hold historical significance. They can often help clarify historical problems, making the work of numismatics more than just the chronological markers of coins. In New Zealand, however, the scope for such work is limited due to the geographical and historical context.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while numismatics and archaeology intersect in the preservation and study of coins, the role of professionals such as conservators, archaeologists, and archaeometallurgists is critical in balancing preservation, analysis, and academic study. As a conservator, my aim is to ensure that these coins remain as historically accurate as possible while contributing to the broader field of archaeology.
Keywords: numismatics, archaeology, coin conservation