Archaeometry research of silver coins of the Хth century from Volga Bulgaria (preliminary results)

The results of preliminary investigation of the silver coinage material are discussed in this article, including the study of the chemical composition and structure of the transverse failure of six pieces of 10th century coins that were found on the territory of Semenovskoe I settlement. The advantageous geographical position of Volga Bulgaria at the confluence of the Volga and Kama rivers predetermined its economic and handicraft development. The Semenovskoe settlement was one of the major Bulgarian trade and handicraft centre in the 10th century. Numerous artifacts testifying to active trading, including a large number of various numismatic material, proof this idea. Samples were analyzed by optical and electron microscopy. The results revealed a particular manufacturing technology of numismatic findings based on the name of the ruler and the time of minting. Analysis of the coins' fracture showed the appropriateness of the research methodology, which allows to avoid distortions arising from sample preparation. The results have proven incorrect data obtained from studies of the surface layer or thin cross sections. Authors plan to explore these findings in other analytical techniques to create the optimal research complex for the purpose of its application in the study of a wide range of archaeological numismatic material.