A metal detectorist in England has made an incredible discovery: a hoard of 840 Iron Age gold coins. The coins were found in a field near the town of Wickham Market, Suffolk, and are thought to date back to the 1st century BC.
The hoard is the largest of its kind ever found in England, and is a significant find for archaeologists and historians. The coins provide a rare glimpse into the economy and culture of Iron Age Britain.
The Discovery
The coins were found by a metal detectorist named Michael Dark. Dark was searching a field near Wickham Market when he made the discovery. He initially thought he had found a lump of metal, but when he dug it up, he realized that it was a hoard of gold coins.
Dark contacted the authorities, and the coins were taken to the British Museum for examination. The coins are made of gold, and are in good condition. They are all of the same type, and are thought to have been minted in the same place.
The Coins
The coins are called staters, and are about the size of a modern 50 pence piece. They are stamped with a variety of images, including horses, chariots, and shields. The coins are thought to have been used as a form of currency in Iron Age Britain.
The Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the Wickham Market Hoard is a significant find for archaeologists and historians. The coins provide a rare glimpse into the economy and culture of Iron Age Britain.
The coins show that gold was used as a form of currency in Iron Age Britain, and that there was a well-developed trade network in the region. The coins also provide insights into the political and social organization of Iron Age Britain.
The Future of the Coins
The Wickham Market Hoard is currently being held by the British Museum. The museum plans to display the coins in an exhibition later this year.
The discovery of the Wickham Market Hoard is a reminder of the rich history of England. The coins are a valuable artifact, and their preservation will help to ensure that the history of England is not forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where were the coins found?
The coins were found in a field near the town of Wickham Market, Suffolk, England.
2. How many coins were found?
There were 840 coins in the hoard.
3. What are the coins made of?
The coins are made of gold.
4. What are the coins stamped with?
The coins are stamped with a variety of images, including horses, chariots, and shields.
5. What is the significance of the discovery?
The discovery of the Wickham Market Hoard is a significant find for archaeologists and historians. The coins provide a rare glimpse into the economy and culture of Iron Age Britain.
I hope you enjoyed reading about the Wickham Market Hoard. This is just one example of the many treasures that are waiting to be discovered in England. If you are interested in learning more about the country’s history, I encourage you to visit a museum or take a tour.
