The coinage of housesteads: a numismatic study of the economy and chronology of a fort on Hadrian’s wall

Abstract

Commencing with a synopsis of previous research into the fort and a general history of the fort, vicus and constituent structures this thesis then examines the general problems associated with the study of coins. Histograms are produced from coin counts so that the general history of the fort and vicus can be re-examined. The following sections examine the economy and chonology of the fort and vicus at great depth. Starting with the problem of the garrison of the fort during th Antonine Wall period in which a new statistical method is developed for determining garrison size and type. This statistical method using counts of total coin value is then utilised on the problem of Severan pay levels and associated problems such as the probable presence of supplementary troops at Housesteads at this time. This leads into a discussion of what the soldiers did with their pay and the purpose of the vicus. A section on the late third century looks into the hypotheses of a possible abandonment of the fort under Carausius or a possible garrison reduction during this period time perhaps connected with the building of the 'chalet' barracks, the annona militaris and the proposed end of the vicus. The study ends with research into the fourth century in which the giving of military donatives is examined in relation to the garrison type on duty at Housesteads in the fourth century, the problems associated with Count Theodosius and Magnus Maximus and the possible date for the end of the fort. A catalogue of all traceable coins from Housesteads is included.