In a remarkable discovery, an amateur historian in Newfoundland has unearthed a 600-year-old gold coin, potentially the oldest British coin ever found in Canada. This intriguing find occurred during a scuba diving expedition near the port town of Caesarea, Israel, led by Mr. Zvika Fayer and his friends. The discovery sheds light on an ancient treasure that has remained hidden beneath the Mediterranean Sea for centuries.
The Discovery:The story begins on an overcast morning in February 2015, when Mr. Zvika Fayer, an amateur diver with a passion for history, and his friends ventured into the sea near Caesarea. A winter storm had recently swept through the area, altering the seabed’s topography. During a scuba diving trip, Fayer and his colleagues noticed a glimmer of gold coins beneath the sandy ocean floor.
Initially, the divers suspected the coins might be fake, given the recent storm and changes in the underwater landscape. However, upon closer inspection, they were astonished to find real gold coins. “I was surprised when I discovered these gold coins,” expressed Mr. Zvika Fayer, highlighting the unexpected nature of the find.
Collaboration with Archaeological Authorities:Rather than keeping the treasure for themselves, Fayer and his team acted responsibly. They promptly contacted the Archaeological Agency for Israel (IAA) to report their discovery. The IAA conducted further surveys in the area, leading to the recovery of more than 2,000 24-karat gold coins with a purity of up to 95%.
The Historical Significance:Archaeologists consider the find priceless, both physically and mentally. The coins, now property of the state, provide valuable insights into a forgotten or poorly understood historical period. Robert Kool, an expert on antiquity with the Israel Archaeology Authority, confirmed that the coins’ excellent preservation was due to the optimal conditions on the seabed.
The Ancient City of Caesarea:Caesarea, located on the Mediterranean coast between Tel Aviv and Haifa, is renowned for its ancient Roman ruins. Initially built in the 4th century BC as a bustling trading post, the city went through various rulers, including the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus. Under King Herod the Great, the city flourished, boasting walls forming a massive seaport and aqueducts serving over 100,000 inhabitants.
The Historical Context:The discovered coins date back to the reigns of Caliphs al-Hakim and his son al-Zahir, during which Caesarea was part of the Fatimid dynasty of Islam. These coins, minted in cities like Cairo and Palermo, provide evidence of a unified currency system circulating through the region.
The discovery of the ancient gold coins off the coast of Caesarea not only adds to the historical wealth of the region but also emphasizes the importance of responsible archaeological practices. Mr. Zvika Fayer and his fellow divers’ collaboration with the IAA showcases the significance of amateur historians in uncovering hidden treasures and contributing to our understanding of the past. As exploration continues, the sea off Caesarea remains a captivating realm, offering glimpses into the rich tapestry of history lying beneath its waves.