Combined use of 3D X-ray microscopy and correlative microscopy for chemical-physical investigation of bronze Phoenician coins

High-resolution and non-destructive 3D imaging and tomography offer multi-length scale visualization of archaeological artifacts and provide as much physical and microstructural information about the objects as possible. This research presents a correlative microscopy workflow, encompassing X-ray Microscopy (XRM), μ-Raman spectroscopy and Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy (CLEM), to investigate Phoenician-Punic bronze coins dating back to the 5th–4th century BC. In this context, XRM revealed internal features and hidden sample details, enabling us to estimate and analyze irregularities such as cracks and pits inside the coins, as well as to examine the phase composition. CLEM analysis, conducted via cross-section preparation of the coins, provided details about corrosive phases, and ex- hibited notable differences in terms of their elemental composition and microstructures, resulting from physical stresses and exposure to environmental conditions. This research presents broader applications of interest in the field of materials science technology, as it not only enhances our understanding of ancient coins, but also accelerates and improves data acquisition and processing.