Le monete dallo scavo

This contribution examines ten coins recovered at Mot del Castel, dated between the 4th and 15th centuries. They are predominantly low-value pieces – “small change” more likely to be lost – with a strong concentration in the 12th–13th centuries, that is, in the final phase of habitation on the terrace. Almost all the specimens derive from controlled stratigraphic contexts, permitting an integrated numismatic and archaeological analysis. Following a general discussion of the value and limitations of single finds, the author presents detailed entries for each coin, assessing state of preservation, wear and contextual relationships. The only late antique specimen is a bronze (AE2) of Theodosius I, dated to the penultimate decade of the 4th century, found in an early medieval layer of the cemetery area and interpreted as a residual coin reintroduced into circulation or displaced by reworking. For the early medieval period, a single half-denaro scodellato of Milan in the names of Ugo and Lotario (931–947) is attested. Its relatively high intrinsic value and usual association with hoards rather than petty transactions make its presence among sporadic finds, and in a later context, particularly significant, suggesting circulation at least until the Ottonian monetary reform. The main group consists of denari scodellati from Milan and issues of Cremona and Pavia of the 12th–13th centuries: three denari scodellati from Milan from an internal floor; a reinforced denaro (denaro inforziato) from Cremona; a denaro mezzano from Pavia; and a soldo from Milan in the name of Gian Galeazzo Visconti for the late 14th–early 15th centuries. The author distinguishes coins in primary position from residual pieces, showing how some were displaced by Renaissance landscaping and levelling works. In conclusion, a first image of monetary circulation in the area is proposed: clear predominance of Lombard issues, especially those of Milan, consistent with regional political and economic structures; gaps for the 15th–16th centuries, explained by both the reduced use of the area (now garden or pasture) and the corrosion of low-silver alloys. Although few in number, the coins confirm the full integration of Piuro into the Po Valley economic space and provide valuable termini post quem for dating the medieval buildings.