The application of LA-ICP-MS in the examination of the thin plating layers found in late Roman coins

During the late Roman period the production of complex copper alloy (Cu–Sn–Pb–Ag) coins with a silvered surface, became common practice. Previous analyses of these coins did not solve key technological issues and in particular, the silvering process. Two methods have been suggested for the production of the thin plating layers in late Roman coins the dipping in molten silver chloride and the use of silvering pastes. However, there are questions about their use. More recent research showed that hot-dipping methods, such as the dipping in molten silver chloride, were not really suitable for mass production. Also, the earliest references to the use of silvering pastes dated to 17th century AD. A review of ancient sources and historic literature indicated silver amalgam plating as the possible method for the production of the plating in late Roman coins. Results derived from non-destructive LA-ICP-MS analysis have demonstrated, for the first time, the presence of Hg in the surface layers of these coins. The optimization of the method and the factors influenced the analyses results, are discussed. The examination of the coins by means of EPMA confirmed the ICP-MS results. The introduction of a new technique for the examination of plating layers, helped in the identification of amalgam silvering as the method used in the production of the coins.