The Archaeologist

View Original

A big treasure hoard was found in Poland

Image Credit : Lublin Provincial Conservator of Monuments

A treasure hoard found near Zaniówka, Poland. It was discovered by detectorist Michał Łotys while surveying farmland for lost agricultural equipment.

Mr Lotys reported the find to the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments (WUOZ) in Lublin. The hoard contains 1,000 crowns and Lithuanian schillings from the 17th century, intentionally deposited in a ceramic jar in a layer of subsoil.

The total hoard weighs 3kg and consists of compressed coins in the jar, 115 dispersed coins, 62 heavily oxidised coins, and fabric pieces. The reason for the intentional burial is unknown, but hoards are often associated with periods of unrest and financial security.

Image Credit : Lublin Provincial Conservator of Monuments

During the 17th century, the region was part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which experienced invasions by Russo-Cossack forces in 1655 and Sweden in 1656. The hoard has been transferred for further study to the Archaeology Department of the Museum of Southern Podlasie in Biała Podlaska.