This dissertation examines the social-, economical- and political aspects of a Roman coin hoard, more specifically the one excavated at the Rotterdamsebaan in the Netherlands. The goal of this...Show moreThis dissertation examines the social-, economical- and political aspects of a Roman coin hoard, more specifically the one excavated at the Rotterdamsebaan in the Netherlands. The goal of this research is to analyse the content of the hoard and relate this to the sociohistorical processes in order to further understand the presence of the hoard as well as provide information about Roman life in the Netherlands during the 2nd century AD. The examination of pottery and jewellery finds have revealed that silver was indeed a very valuable metal that was related to religious practices. In addition, silver acquisition and circulation could reveal more about the local economy of the rural settlements. This is accomplished by analysing the coinage based on the weight, date and depiction of emperors. The results of this thesis show that the hoard was indeed quite valuable because silver was a high value item which was used for circulation in trade as well as religious activities. However, the Roman military also influenced the settlement when it comes to coin circulation as well as the building plans and structures based on archaeological evidence, such as ceramic roof tiles, dwellings, postholes and ditches. The settlement could also be in relation with an important military site, Forum Hadriani. Furthermore, reasons for the deposition of the silver hoard are introduced, for example religious depositions, building offer or safe deposits. The latter can be explained based on external threats from the Chauken who were known to conduct piracy during the 2nd century AD within the Roman Empire.Show less