Elemental Compositions of Herodian Prutah, Copper Coins-of the Biblical 'Widow's Mites' Series-via Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence

摘要

Thirty six small copper coins issued under the authority of Herod Agrippa I were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for copper, zinc, tin, lead, antimony, iron, gold, silver, and several other elements. This series of coins show significant amounts of lead in the coins, but an otherwise unadulterated bronze composition, with very little in the way of trace elements. The metallurgical make up of the samples and implications of the findings are presented here.