Off the picturesque coast of Sardinia, Italy, a scuba diver stumbled upon a hidden treasure trove that has left archaeologists and historians buzzing with excitement. The discovery, comprising tens of thousands of almost intact Roman and Byzantine coins, may hold the key to unraveling an undiscovered shipwreck’s mysteries.
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The find occurred when the diver, exploring the depths near Arzachena, noticed something unusual under a blanket of seaweed. Upon closer inspection, the diver uncovered a staggering 30,000 to 50,000 coins, dating back to the era of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great (306-337 AD).
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The diligent diver promptly reported the discovery to local authorities, initiating a response from the Italian Ministry of Culture. In a statement, the ministry revealed that experts believe the location of the treasure strongly suggests its connection to an undiscovered shipwreck.
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Archaeologists carefully examined the coins and identified them as a type commonly used in the Roman and Byzantine empires, minted between 324 and 340 AD. Astonishingly, the coins remain in a state of near-perfect preservation, with only four showing any signs of damage. Even these damaged coins bear readable engravings, including dates and human faces.
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The coins in question were in circulation during the reign of Constantine the Great, a pivotal period in Roman history. The director of Mediterranean archaeology, fine arts, and landscape, Luigi La Rocca, declared this find in the waters of Arzachena as one of the most significant discoveries of ancient coins.
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“The artifacts once again emphasize the richness and importance of deep-sea archaeological heritage,” remarked La Rocca, highlighting the importance of preserving and studying these submerged historical sites.
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The discovery adds a layer of intrigue, as archaeologists now speculate about the potential connection between the coins and an undiscovered shipwreck. Unraveling this mystery could provide valuable insights into trade routes, maritime activities, and the broader historical context of the Roman and Byzantine empires.
As the archaeological community gears up for further investigations, this remarkable find promises to contribute significantly to our understanding of the ancient world, underscoring the importance of preserving and exploring our underwater heritage.