A stunning treasure of 1,000-year-old silver pennies has been found, valued at $5.6 million (£4.3 million). This makes it the most valuable treasure discovery in England’s history!
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The Discovery
In January 2019, a group of seven metal detector enthusiasts embarked on a speculative trip to a muddy field in the Chew Valley, near Bath and North East Somerset. Despite a fierce thunderstorm, they dug for about four to five hours and uncovered a staggering 2,584 coins.
Adam Staples, one of the finders, shared his experience: “We didn’t leave until we thought we had found all the coins. We were soaking wet by the end!” The British Museum described this hoard as one of the most remarkable finds reported under the Treasure Act 1996.
What’s in the Hoard?
The treasure consists of pennies from King Harold II, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, and coins from William the Conqueror, dating back to the Norman Conquest (1066–1068 AD). After discovering the coins, the group reported their find to a local liaison officer as part of the British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme, which helps document archaeological discoveries made by the public.
Funding and Future Plans
On October 22, the South West Heritage Trust announced it acquired this “unprecedented” hoard thanks to major funding. They received over £4.4 million ($5.7 million) from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £150,000 ($195,000) from Art Fund. The Trust is also looking to apply for further grants to support an engagement program and to display the hoard permanently at the Museum of Somerset.
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Reactions from the Finders
“It’s fantastic, unbelievable,” Staples told The Guardian on October 21. “To find one coin was great. Then we found more and more. It felt like holding history in your hand.” He added that the financial aspect was a huge bonus, saying, “It has definitely changed my life.”
The finders will split the proceeds, with half going to them and the other half to the landowner, who remains unnamed. Staples mentioned, “We all agreed to share it and we’re all happy with the agreement.” He previously told the Daily Telegraph that this discovery could “totally change” his life and allow him to buy his own property.
Upcoming Display
The coins will be showcased at the British Museum on November 26 before touring other museums in the UK, with a final stop at the Museum of Somerset.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.