In the AD 270s and 280s, huge numbers of imitations of copper-alloy radiate coins, usually referred to as “barbarous radiates”, were struck in Britain. While they are almost ubiquitous finds on excavations throughout the province, they have not been the focus of much research. This project therefore aims to redress the balance. Through new chemical (portable-XRF and MP-AES) and archaeological analysis, this work will place these radiates in a wider setting and unlock their potential for understanding the late Roman technological, social and economic world. It will explore the production and use of these imitations and their social importance. What does copying, irregularity, or imitation mean at this time, and how do these coins relate to contemporary metallurgical practice?
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