CONTENTS.

xiii

of the precious metals in the early ages.—Commence-ment of coining.—Purity of coin.—Loss by wear.—Consumption in ornamental works . Page 142

CHAPTER VI.

On the effect of the increased quantity of the precious metalson prices, from the earliest period of history till the

establishment of the Roman empire under Augustus_

Relative difference of value of articles in the early ages.—Increase in the pay of the soldiers.—Decreasing valueof the talent.—Prices of wheat and bread.—Increasedprices of other commodities . . .156

CHAPTER VII.

On the produce of gold and silver from the accession ofAugustus , to the division of the Roman empire at theend of the fifth century.—Treasure seized by Julius Cee-sar.—Tribute collected throughout the empire.—Wealthof private individuals.—New mode of working the mines.—Disturbed state of the frontier.—Decline of the mines,—Decrease of the number of slaves . .168

CHAPTER VIII.

On the circulation of the precious metals between the reignof Augustus and the dissolution of the western empire.—Wealth accumulated at the time of Augustus from thevarious provinces.—Conveyance to the capital . 185

CHAPTER IX.

On the consumption of gold and silver from the death ofAugustus , in the year 14, to the dissolution of the