This lesson focuses on the role of pure copper in coinage. While copper has been historically important, its softness makes it unsuitable for most tools or coins without alloying. Typically, copper is combined with tin to form bronze or with zinc to create brass, both of which are stronger and more durable. Nevertheless, some coins have been minted in pure copper, offering valuable case studies for analysis.
Objectives
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Understand the limitations of pure copper as a coinage metal.
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Recognize the difference between pure copper coins and copper alloys.
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Analyze examples of historical copper coins using XRF spectroscopy.
Materials
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Two historical copper coins (3 cent. Napoleon’s Kingdom of Italy 1808, 1 cent. Kingdom of Sardinia 1826 ).
Lesson Plan
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Introduce copper as a soft but historically important metal.
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Compare pure copper with common alloys such as bronze and brass.
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Present two examples of pure copper coins:
To reinforce the concepts discussed here, we also provide a video lesson that visually walks through the key points of this topic. Watching the video alongside the text can help you better understand and apply these ideas in practice.
The course XRF Spectroscopy for Art Examination introduces conservators, art historians, and scientists with interest in Art to the principles and practical applications of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy in the examination of artworks. The course starts with basic principles of XRF and gradually explores its role in identifying materials and methods used in the creation and conservation of art.
Course Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of XRF spectroscopy and how it applies to the analysis of art.
- Learn the key features and limitations of XRF for examining art and archaeology.
- Gain skills in interpreting XRF spectra to identify specific elements in paint layers, inks and metals.
