EARLY MEDIEVAL AND ISLAMIC. Methods of Chemical and Metallurgical Investigation of Ancient Coinage. E. T. Hall and D. M. Metcalf (eds.) (London, Royal Numismatic Society, 1972). RNS Special Publication No. 8, small 4to, viii, 446 pages with figures, charts, tables, and 20 plates, in original red cloth with dust jacket. A scarce and important collection of specialist studies on the scientific examination of coinage, bringing together a wide range of analytical methods and case studies across periods and metals, with contributions addressing metal-content analysis, surface silvering, lead isotopes, specific gravity testing of gold, fluorescence and activation analysis, electron-probe microanalysis, alloy hardness and brittleness, Sutton Hoo gold, Merovingian gold standards and hoards, Roman imperial silver and aes, Antoniniani as historical evidence, and the effects of corrosion and time on analytical results. A cornerstone reference for the numismatist using metallurgical evidence in research, attribution, and deeper technical study, and increasingly difficult to locate in commerce. Covers with light wear and shelf dust, spine fading, showing age and use; overall the book is in VG condition. From the personal reference library of David Allen, a well known numismatist, formed over more than 50 years and used as a long term reference for research, attribution, and catalogue work.

Estimate: AUD 100