Over fifty-thousand ancient Roman coins were unearthed by Dave Crisp, a treasure hunter, near Somerset, England. Valued at over 4.5 million (US), the cache was found within an earthen jar as Crisp was sweeping with a metal detector. He pulled out about 20 coins before he realized the extent of the find and stopped to seek assistance. Archaeologists in Britain are grateful that Mr. Crisp halted further excavation, allowing them to examine the site scientifically. Already the find is being labeled by men like Roger Bland of the British Museum as one of the most important in the country's history. Notable coins found among the more than 700 types were those from the reign of Marcus Aurelius Mausaeus Carausius, a Belgium-born Roman officer who seized power in Britiain and Gaul (roughly present day France and Belgium). It is not yet clear as to why so much gold was buried, but in time, Archaeologists hope to unravel the mystery. Already they are speculating that it may have been an offering to appease some deity in hopes of a good harvest. Both Mr. Crisp and the owner of the land upon which the coins were found will share in the proceeds from any sale to the British Museum, in accordance with law. The museum will showcase some of the find from July 22 through roughly mid-August as they begin the conservation process.
No comments:
Post a Comment