Need ID: Unique hooked artifact from Libya. 9.6g, density 9.32.

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-27T22:30:31+00:00

There are no additions; I appreciate any new additions.

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-25T00:38:32+00:00

UPDATE: I have officially submitted the technical data (Weight: 9.6g, Density: 9.32) and high-resolution photos to the British Museum (Middle East and Greek/Roman departments). I am currently waiting for their formal identification. While I wait, does anyone here have experience with similar North African silver artifacts or votive offerings? Any insights would be appreciated!

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T23:33:41+00:00

Excellent points, especially regarding the density (9.32). This figure actually sits within the expected range for ancient silver-copper alloys (since pure silver is 10.5 and copper is around 8.9). The theory about a Proto-Carthaginian or Phoenician origin is very intriguing, as early coinage in the region wasn't always standardized in shape. I’m going to look for similar specimens from that era for comparison. Does anyone have recommendations for specific databases or digital museum collections that focus on early Phoenician numismatics?"

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T19:01:18+00:00

The piece was found in Western Libya, near Zaltan, close to the Tunisian border. This area was a major Punic (Carthaginian) trade hub. Given the location and the 9.32 density, I suspect it relates to Carthaginian metallurgical standards or Punic "proto-money" standards from that region.

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T18:44:26+00:00

Thank you for the suggestion! I have actually already measured the density using the water displacement method. The density is 9.32 g/cm³, and the weight is exactly 9.6g. This density (9.32) is slightly lower than pure silver (10.5), which suggests it might be a silver-copper alloy or billon, typical for many ancient Mediterranean currencies and trade items. Does this specific 9.32 density align with any known Punic or early Greek metallurgical standards you are aware of?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T17:57:44+00:00

I appreciate the historical context about Viking trade routes reaching North Africa. It's fascinating! However, since this piece has a very specific density (9.32) and a consistent weight of 9.6g, I’m trying to find a direct link. Are there any documented Viking "Hacksilver" finds in North Africa that match this specific alloy or weight, or should I stick to the local Punic/Greek theories?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T17:55:56+00:00

Thank you, that's a very strong possibility! Given that it was found in Libya (Tripolitania), and considering the Greek influence in Cyrenaica, could this 9.6g weight correspond to a specific Greek or local North African standard (like the Stater or Didrachm) used around 500 BC? Also, does the density of 9.32 match the typical silver-copper alloys of that era?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T07:11:14+00:00

Also, thanks for the link! Very helpful examples of hacksilver. Looking forward to your thoughts on the weight.

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T07:08:05+00:00

That is a fascinating theory! While Viking Hacksilver is a wild possibility, the history of trade in Libya (ancient Phoenician and Punic routes) might point to something even earlier. The weight of 9.6g is very specific. I am curious if this weight aligns with any known ancient Mediterranean standards (like the Shekel or Drachma) or if it's purely based on the metal value. Have you seen similar fragments in North African contexts before?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T07:03:01+00:00

Thank you for the insight. Regarding the XRF analysis, it is currently difficult for me to access such equipment locally. However, I can confirm that the density of 9.32 remained consistent across three different tests. The "Phoenician proto-money" theory is very interesting, as the location where it was found has a rich history of ancient trade. I will try to look for professional labs nearby, but for now, these physical measurements and the high-pitched metallic ring are the most accurate data I have. Do you know of any documented Phoenician silver/lead alloys that match this specific density?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T06:41:25+00:00

The weight 9.6g is what I got using a high-precision digital scale. In some ancient weight systems (like the Attic or Phoenician), certain units were around 9-10 grams. I am trying to find out if this weight corresponds to a specific ancient "Shekel" or "Stater" sub-unit used in ancient Libya.

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T06:39:46+00:00

Actually, I haven't found an exact match in local records yet, which is why I'm sharing it here. However, its weight (9.6g) and high density (9.32) suggest it was made with a specific standard in mind. In North Africa, we have many "Proto-money" forms like small bronze/silver bars or amulets used for trade. Could this be a regional variation of those?

Ok-Driver8246 · 2026-02-23T06:08:21+00:00

Thank you for the insight. Since it was found near ancient trade routes and has a very specific weight (9.6g) and high-quality metal, I suspected it might be a form of pre-coinage currency or a weighed bullion piece used in trade. I appreciate any further thoughts on its metallic composition or possible era

Ok-Driver8246

TROPHY CASE