New finds of Thracian and Lower Moesian Mints from Viminacium

Abstract

Under Antoninus Pius, an increased influx of coins from the Thracian and Lower Moesian mints in the territory of Moesia Superior can be observed. Two other peaks coincide with the reigns of Septimius Severus and Caracalla. Among the Thracian cities, the coins of Pautalia prevail, followed by Hadrianopolis, Philippopolis, and Perinthus, while the share of other mints (Anchialus, Serdica, Deultum, Byzantium, Augusta Traiana, Mesambria, and Plotinopolis) is considerably smaller. Coins from the Lower Moesian mints are represented in far lower numbers than coins from the Thracian mints. The largest number comes from the Nicopolis ad Istrum mint, while Marcianopolis and Tomis are represented with one specimen each. The mapping of Thracian coins found in the territory of Moesia Superior shows their largest concentration in Viminacium and its surroundings. So far, 68 coins of the Thracian (52) and Lower Moesian (16) mints have been found during archaeological excavations at Viminacium.