'Keseph': The Use of Silver Money in the Southern Levant from the Middle Bronze Age to the End of the Iron Age (~2000-600 BC)
Overview
Paper Summary
This archaeological study analyzes silver hoards in the Southern Levant to explore the use of silver as pre-coinage money from the Middle Bronze Age to the Iron Age. The study reveals that silver, adopted as money as early as the Middle Bronze Age, became the dominant form during the Iron Age, despite periods of shortage and debasement with copper, reflecting broader economic changes and trade ties with Anatolia and Mesopotamia.
Explain Like I'm Five
Ancient people in the Southern Levant used silver as money long before coins were invented, starting in the Middle Bronze Age. They often buried it in pots under their floors, especially during times of war or instability.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This is a well-researched and detailed archaeological study using hoard analysis and lead isotope studies of hoards, to trace the history of pre-coinage money in the Southern Levant. It presents a compelling case for the early adoption and enduring significance of silver in the region's economy. While the analysis relies on contextual interpretations which can have some inherent subjectivity, the large dataset of hoards and supporting chemical composition analysis mitigate this limitation.
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