Ancient bronze coins dating back to between the 8th and 12th centuries have recently been discovered in Zhambyl Region of southern Kazakhstan, Kazinform reported on Tuesday, citing local historians.

The coins were unearthed during archaeological excavations in the region. Historians said some were minted in the ancient city of Taraz, while others originated from the courts of China's Tang and Song dynasties.

Scholars noted that the findings provide further evidence of active trade along the ancient Silk Road, which once passed through Taraz, a major commercial center in Central Asia.

In total, 46 coins and ceramic fragments were found during last year's excavations. In addition to the bronze coins, archaeologists also identified 13th-century copper coins and silver dirhams.

All artifacts will be transferred to local museums for preservation and study, according to the report.

(Cover: Coins of China's Song dynasty, Chongqing Municipality, southwest China, August 4, 2023. /VCG)