A remarkable discovery has been made by a metal detectorist from Leicestershire, as he uncovered a once-in-a-lifetime hoard of 50 Roman coins. David Dunn, a 42-year-old bathroom fitter from Sapcote, was exploring a local pasture when he stumbled upon the ancient treasure. The discovery was made even more extraordinary when the farmer who owned the land joined David to dig further, revealing dozens more coins all within a small 4m² area.
David, who has been actively metal detecting for two years, expressed his surprise at the find, stating, “Something told me to go to that field. I wasn’t expecting much, but then it just snowballed from there.” The hoard includes coins dating back to the late 3rd century, with many in remarkably pristine condition, boasting perfect portraits of the rulers from that era.
The collection of coins, mainly Antoninianus coins used in the Roman Empire, will be sold as a single lot by Noonans Mayfair with an estimated value ranging between £1,200-£1,500. Initially, David took the hoard to his local finds officer, where it underwent examination for a year and was offered to museums. However, after the coins were disclaimed and returned, David made the decision to sell them – not for personal profit, but to assist a struggling farmer who had been impacted by the challenges of the pandemic.
Describing his motive, David stated, “The money doesn’t interest me. I love finding history. The farmer has had a tough few years since Covid, so I’d like to give him most of it if it can help in any way.” With a mix of Antoninianus coins from the reigns of Carausius, Allectus, Diocletian, and Maximian, the hoard offers a valuable glimpse into Roman history and coinage.
Noonans Coin Expert Alice Cullen commended the find, remarking, “This is a wonderful discovery of Antoninianus coins by David, and we are delighted to be overseeing their sale.” The hoard’s significance was further highlighted as one of the coins will be recorded as a new variety in the forthcoming updated Roman Imperial Coinage volume 5, an exciting development according to Dr. Sam Moorhead from the British Museum.
For David, the joy of exploration and discovery remains the most rewarding aspect of his hobby, with the unexpected unearthing of the Roman coins serving as a thrilling bonus to his outdoor adventures. As he reflected, “Just being out in the fresh air after a long day’s work is what I enjoy. Finding something like this is just a bonus.”
The rare find of the Roman coin hoard adds a fascinating chapter to the history of the region and showcases the value of amateur archaeology and metal detecting. It serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that lie beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed by dedicated enthusiasts like David Dunn.