Фото: H. Zhao / Antiquity
Mint excavations in Guanzhuang
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New research confirms that the first coins were not minted in Turkey or Greece, as previously thought.
Chinese archaeologists say they have discovered the oldest mint in the world in Henan province, where miniature bronze coins in the shape of shovels were massively cast as far back as 2,600 years ago. An article about the find was published in Antiquity magazine, writes National Geographic.
According to scientists, the copper foundry was built no later than 770 BC on the outskirts of the city of Guanzhuang. It was well organized and could mass produce copper and copper alloy products.
Thousands of artifacts were found on its territory: fragments of products, clay molds, vessels, weapons, parts of chariots, tools and jewelry.
Using radiocarbon analysis, scientists have determined that the mint began operating between 640 and 550 BC. Copper-tin-lead coins were cast on it in the form of shovel blades measuring 14×6 centimeters.
Over time, they began to put inscriptions on the coins indicating the denomination. It was used as money until 221 BC, when the first Chinese emperor, Qin, abolished it.
Before this find, the most ancient monts of the Lydian kingdom were considered, which dated back to about 600 BC. They were found on the territory of modern Turkey.
Earlier it was reported that in the Chinese province of Sichuan found the golden mask about 3000 thousand years old.
Ancient treasure cache discovered in Turkey
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