In a scene reminiscent of a treasure hunt, two metal detector enthusiasts, David Moss and Tom Taylor, stumbled upon an archaeological marvel in a field in Caerhun Community, Conwy, Wales. Their chance discovery, made during a rainy excursion, led to the unearthing of a large ceramic pot filled with ancient Roman coins. The find has ignited excitement among historians and archaeologists, shedding light on the rich history of the region and its connection to the Roman era.

On a fateful day in 2018, David Moss and Tom Taylor set out with their metal detectors near a site where the remains of a possible Roman temple were excavated years earlier. As they scoured the field, Moss's metal detector emitted a signal that caught his attention. He moved closer, and to his amazement, he had stumbled upon a deep object buried beneath the ground. Upon digging further, the top of a ceramic vessel filled with ancient coins was revealed. Moss described the moment of discovery, saying, "It came as a huge surprise when I dug down and eventually revealed the top of the vessel that held the coins." The pair likened their find to the renowned UK television show "Time Team," a reference to their meticulous excavation and handling of the discovery.

The Ancient Coin Trove

Moss and Taylor carefully unearthed the ceramic vessel, and in addition to the large pot, they also discovered a smaller collection of coins. Eager to learn more about their find, they brought their discovery to officials for further examination. Officials from the Amgueddfa Cymru museum took charge of the investigation. They documented the find with photographs, created 3D models, and conducted microexcavations and CT scans to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ancient coins.

The ceramic vessel, dating back to approximately 270 A.D., held an astonishing 2,733 coins. These coins were a blend of silver and copper pieces, crafted between 32 B.C. and 270 A.D. The coins were arranged in layers within the pot, with the older ones found closer to the bottom and the newer ones towards the top. The silver pieces were primarily contained within two leather bags, while the copper pieces were loosely scattered. Additionally, 37 silver coins were discovered scattered nearby, ranging in date from 32 B.C. to 221 A.D. Experts believe that these coins were likely buried in the 220s A.D.

Historical Significance

The presence of these ancient coins has generated excitement among historians and archaeologists. The proximity of the discovery to a Roman temple dating back to the third century A.D. suggests a strong historical connection. Experts believe that the coins may have been buried in this area for religious or protective reasons, possibly as votive offerings or for safekeeping under the temple's deity's protection. There is also a theory that these coins may have belonged to soldiers stationed at the nearby Roman fort of Canovium.

The remarkable discovery by metal detector enthusiasts David Moss and Tom Taylor in Wales has unearthed a trove of ancient Roman coins, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the region's rich history. The carefully excavated coins, spanning centuries and containing valuable insights into the past, have ignited fresh interest among historians and archaeologists. As experts continue to study these ancient artifacts, they are sure to reveal more secrets about the ancient Romans' presence in this region.