Question about silver, gold, mining..and lack of them

[zugislander]

As I recall the "late third Century coin shortage" had more to do with hoarding caused by Diocletian's re-minting than an actual shortage of specie, but I have no sources to hand, nor the mind to even begin looking right now. Sorry to be of so little help, but my wife gave birth Friday to our fourth daughter, and I am watching the other three while she recovers, and thus kind of scattered at this time.

Good Luck.

Cordially,

Michael