The role of archaeometallurgical characterization of ancient coins in forgery detection

Abstract

Abstract The study of chemical composition and microstructural features of ancient coins provide researchers with invaluable and priceless information which can contribute to forgery detection. This study was conducted on nine copper and bronze coins preserved in a private collection in Egypt. Elemental analysis was performed to determine the major and trace elements of the coins as well as unalloyed inclusions in the metallic matrix. The microstructure was investigated using the optical and scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that chemical composition could perfectly negate the authenticity of the coins through modernistic metal identification of major and minor elements. Also, the presence of common trace elements confirms likely the authentication and their absences preponderate counterfeit. Moreover, microstructural features related to ancient manufacturing process and internal damage can contribute to detect forgery.