In a remarkable archaeological discovery, researchers excavating the remnants of a former burgage plot in Szprotawa, Poland, have stumbled upon a treasure hoard containing approximately 100 to 150 Silesian bracteate coins. This find provides a fascinating insight into the economic and monetary practices of medieval Silesia, shedding light on the circulation, exchange, and taxation associated with these unique coins.
A burgage, a term synonymous with town rental property, referred to a "burgage tenement," comprising a house on an elongated and narrow piece of land with a slim street frontage. The excavation revealed the remnants of a textile bag meticulously harboring coins arranged in cylinder piles.
Upon closer examination, it became apparent that the coins were predominantly Silesian bracteates, bearing witness to the period between 1250 and 1300. These coins, minted on a thin plate attached to a soft base, marked a distinctive era in Silesian numismatics. They were eventually replaced by thicker coins, known as the quarterly, during the early 14th century.
Originating from the mint workshops of Silesia, these bracteates had a relatively short lifespan as they were routinely called back for exchange, typically once or twice a year. The exchange rate involved receiving three new coins for four old ones, with the fourth coin retained as strike money, constituting a significant part of the coin mint-master's tax revenue. This unique system functioned akin to demurrage, encouraging people to hoard coins due to their diminishing value over time.
Image Credit : Lubuski Wojewódzki Konserwator Zabytków
Radosław Kuźbik, a key figure in the archaeological team, commented on the find, stating, "In the case of cash deposits, the inevitable question is who concealed it, when, and why. Specialists will want to answer this question in the near future. We can assume that it was so-called petty cash belonging to a rather wealthy person." The mystery of the hidden treasure raises intriguing questions about the individual or group responsible for its concealment, prompting further investigations into the social and economic dynamics of medieval Szprotawa.
The significance of this discovery cannot be overstated, as very few coins of this type have survived from the era. The coins were often melted down continuously, making such intact hoards exceedingly rare. This find, along with the associated archaeological evidence, provides a comprehensive view of the economic landscape during the medieval period in Silesia.
In addition to the bracteates, the excavation also revealed remnants of a bridge dating back to the 15th to 16th centuries and the original city walls constructed during the 14th century. These findings contribute not only to our understanding of the region's monetary history but also to the broader historical and architectural context of Szprotawa. The uncovering of a bridge and city walls adds layers to the story of this medieval town, showcasing the complexity of its development over the centuries.
As researchers continue to analyze and interpret these artifacts, the treasure hoard of Silesian bracteates in Szprotawa stands as a testament to the intricate economic systems and daily life of medieval Silesia, inviting us to explore the hidden stories beneath the surface of this ancient town.
