ABSTRACT
For a long time questions have been raised about the possible raw material sources of tin and copper used by the Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC) due to its production of high-status quality bronzes. Subsequent archaeological research centered upon the main (polymetallic) copper and tin deposits has revealed a mining industry with a history going back to the Bronze Age. Recent excavations have proved that tin mining, ore processing, and smelting were undertaken by the Andronovo-Tazabag’jab peoples. Indeed, it seems that all of the investigated copper and tin deposits with traces of “ancient” mining are connected to the Andronovo culture.
