Leo IV Miliaresion Plated?

[Alex S2]

Dear Forvm Community,

I assume that this coin is plated.

So the question is by whom? Could this be official issue or maybe ancient forgery?

Would appreciate any thoughts and opinions on this.

Thanks a lot.

Alex

[SC]

I don't believe the coin is plated.

I think that you have a silver coin with several things happening. 

Though the whole coin is silver, the surface and interior are slightly different due to some or all of - deliberate surface enrichment at the time of manufacture (e.g. pickling in a natural acid), burial, and cleaning.  The surface layer is then cracked and flaked off in parts revealing a darker looking, but still silver interior.

There is also some build up of horn silver(?) on the reverse in particular.

SC

[Obryzum]

I agree that the coin looks like an official issue

[Alex S2]

otlichnik, Obryzum Thank you very much for your help. So many new things to learn every time with every new coin