Discovered in 1713 in Transylvania, they depict a face and the word Sponsian. A study by University College London claims they are authentic
In 1713, ancient Roman coins were found in Transylvania , considered false for a long time. In fact, according to a study conducted by scientists at University College London and published in Plos One, these coins are authentic. Paul Pearson and his team analyzed these coins depicting a face and the words “Sponsian”.
In Ancient Rome, money was generally produced with the name and face of the current emperor engraved on it. Currently, however, no ruler with the name Sponsian is known. Transylvanian coins follow the general style of Roman coins, with the exception of a few differences. This has led experts to think that these were fake coins created to be sold to collectors.
The analyzes conducted by the group of researchers have revealed patterns of micro- abrasions typical of coins that have been in circulation for many years and the earth deposits on the money have suggested that they have been buried for a long time before returning to circulation. Researchers believe these clues strongly prove the authenticity of the coins. Furthermore, they claim that Sponsian was an army commander in the Roman province of Dacia during a period of military conflict in AD 260.
The scientific analysis of these coins has been a very exciting project. We hope that these results will foster the debate on Sponsian as a historical figure and the analysis of artifacts held in other museums across Europe.
Paul Pearson
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