In a thrilling discovery, amateur metal detectorist Laurence Egerton stumbled upon one of the largest hoards of Roman coins ever found in Britain. The Seaton Down Hoard, comprising an astonishing 22,000 copper-alloy coins, was unearthed near Seaton in East Devon. Egerton’s determination to protect the site led him to camp out for three nights while archaeologists meticulously excavated the area.
The collection, believed to have been buried by a private individual or soldier for safekeeping during ancient times, represents a remarkable find. Declared treasure at a recent Devon Coroner’s Inquest, the Seaton Down Hoard is now eligible for acquisition by a museum, pending valuation by the Treasure Valuation Committee.
This remarkable discovery not only ranks among the largest hoards found in Britain but also stands out as one of the best-preserved collections from the 4th century. Egerton’s find follows in the footsteps of the Frome Hoard, discovered in 2010, and a hoard of 22,703 coins found in Nether Compton, Dorset, in 1989.
Professor Neville Morley from Bristol University noted the challenge of converting ancient wealth into modern equivalents, emphasizing the varying purchasing power of money over time and space. The coins in this hoard could represent a soldier’s total salary for two years, the services of a skilled craftsman for 80 days, or even enough grain to feed someone for two years.
The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter, which already houses a significant collection of local Romano-British artifacts, has initiated a fundraising campaign to acquire the Seaton Down Hoard. This extensive collection adds to the rich historical tapestry of the region.
Egerton’s discovery in November 2013 was a monumental find, as the coins were buried in a pit, possibly within a bag that did not survive. Despite the slightly acidic soil in Devon, which usually leads to metal corrosion, the majority of the coins in the Seaton Down Hoard were exceptionally well-preserved.
Bill Horner, Devon County Archaeologist, explained the rarity of such preservation, citing the absence of banks in ancient times and the preference for burying valuables in deep holes. The Seaton Down Hoard, hidden away for over 1,500 years, offers a unique glimpse into Roman life and financial practices.
Exeter’s RAMM, eager to showcase this historical treasure to the public, is actively seeking funds to secure the acquisition. The museum’s commitment reflects a broader effort to preserve and share the rich history embedded in the Seaton Down Hoard, ensuring that this extraordinary find is accessible to future generations.