Gold coins are only clue that Roman leader named Sponsian ever existed. Several Roman coins unearthed in 1713 — long thought to be forgeries — are likely authentic, according to a new scientific analysis. This provides evidence that the leader portrayed on one of the coins was indeed in power durin
Coin of the ‘emperor’ Sponsian, currently in The Hunterian, University of Glasgow, UK, catalog number GLAHM:40333 . Credit: Pearson et al., 2022, PLOS ONE,Several Roman coins unearthed in 1713 — long thought to be forgeries — are likely authentic, according to a new scientific analysis. This provides evidence that the leader portrayed on one of the coins was indeed in power during the 260s CE.
To further investigate the Transylvanian coins’ authenticity, Pearson and colleagues conducted a deeper assessment of the physical characteristics of four of the coins, including the Sponsian coin. They applied visible light microscopy, ultra-violet imaging, scanning electron microscopy, and reflection mode Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to the four coins and, for comparison, two undoubtedly authentic Roman gold coins.
Considering the historical record alongside the new evidence from the coins, the researchers suggest that Sponsian was an army commander in the Roman Province of Dacia during a period of military strife in the 260s CE.
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