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 metals 

 on 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 value 

 of the talent. Prices of wheat and bread. Increased 

 prices of other commodities . . 156 



CHAPTER VII. 



On the produce of gold and silver from the accession of 

 Augustus, to the division of the Roman empire at the 

 end of the fifth century. Treasure seized by Julius Cae- 

 sar. Tribute collected throughout the empire. Wealth 

 of private individuals. New mode of working the mines. 

 Disturbed state of the frontier. Decline of the mines, 

 Decrease of the number of slaves . . ] 68 



CHAPTER VIII. 



On the circulation of the precious metals between the reign 

 of Augustus and the dissolution of the western empire. 

 Wealth accumulated at the time of Augustus from the 

 various provinces. Conveyance to the capital . 185 



CHAPTER IX. 



On the consumption of gold and silver from the death of 

 Augustus, in the year 14, to the dissolution of the 



