Blei für Rom. Politische Loyalität durch ökonomische Abhängigkeit

Several recently discovered lead ingots refer to mining districts in the region of present-day Kosovo. Of particular interest is an ingot with the inscription metallo(rum) Messalini, which refers to M. Valerius Messala Messalinus Corvinus (cos. ord. 3 BC), who was employed as a commander during the Pannonian-Dalmatian uprising of 6–9 AD. He was obviously one of the senators whom Augustus not only honoured with awards for their service, but whom he also supported economically, not unlike Cn. Calpurnius Piso (cos. ord. 7 BC), who had received saltus in Illyricum. These gifts served to create loyalty; but they were precarious gifts because when loyalty ceased, they were reclaimed for the imperial patrimonium.