COIN FINDS FROM THE MID-14TH CENTURY IN AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL CONTEXT: THE PROBLEM OF TRADE ROUTES IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article examines numismatic data on trade routes in Ukraine in the mid-14th century.The aim of the study is to reconstruct trade routes in Ukraine in the mid-14th century based on an analysisof numismatic materials, in particular finds of Prague groschen and Golden Horde coins. The methodolog-ical basis is based on archaeological source studies, stratigraphic and typological analysis of coin com- plexes, as well as comparative comparison with written and cartographic sources. The work uses methods of spatial analysis of coin distribution, chronological synchronization of archaeological sites, and interpre- tation of coins as indicators of economic and trade contacts. The scientific novelty of the study lies in thefirst attempt to systematically link numismatic finds from the mid-14th century with specific trade routes,in particular with the “Lviv Road” to the Black Sea, as well as in identifying the role of the Golden Horde centers of Pobuzhzhya and Podnistria as key hubs of regional trade. Particular attention is paid to the Torhovytsia treasure, finds at the Balykley, Zelena Lipa, and other sites, which made it possible to clar- ify the chronological framework of trade communications and their dependence on the political situation in the region. The conclusions state that numismatic materials from the mid-14th century are a reliable source for reconstructing trade routes, as they record the real economic ties between Galicia, Podillya, the Golden Horde centers, and the Black Sea region. The spread of Prague groschen in salt-producing areas and Golden Horde cities indicates the existence of active trade routes associated with the transportation of salt, silver, and other strategic goods. It has been found that in conditions of political instability, plagueepidemics, and military conflicts, it was the regional routes through the Southern Bug and Dniester riversthat became particularly important. Control over these routes ensured access to resources and shaped thestrategic priorities of both local princes and the Golden Horde. The study confirms the important role ofnumismatics in the archaeological reconstruction of medieval trade networks.