A team of metal detector enthusiasts recently made an incredible discovery in Somerset, England. In early 2019, this group of hobbyists struck gold—or rather, silver—by uncovering the UK’s richest-ever treasure hoard, which has since been valued at an astonishing £4.3 million. The coins, now known as the Chew Valley Hoard, offer a unique look into the history of Britain.
This remarkable find contains 2,584 silver coins dating back nearly 1,000 years. Among these are coins minted during the short reign of King Harold II, who ruled for only nine months before his defeat at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
There are also coins from William the Conqueror’s era, marking a time of major change in British history. Historians believe these coins likely belonged to a wealthy, prominent person who hid them for safekeeping, possibly during the Norman Conquest.
Adam Staples and Lisa Grace, two metal detectorists from the group, were behind the majority of the discovery. Their amazing find has not only made them millionaires, but it’s also given the nation a priceless artifact of its past. The landowner of the property where the hoard was found also receives half of the sale’s proceeds, totaling £2.15 million.
In addition to the historical value, the coins’ condition is almost pristine, with many of them appearing as if they were just minted. Given how rare coins from King Harold’s time are, their mint condition has left historians in awe.
This makes the hoard one of the most important discoveries of British history and has set a new record in treasure value, surpassing the well-known Staffordshire Hoard of 2009.
The British Museum will display this incredible treasure starting November 26, after which it will travel to several museums across the UK before eventually settling at the Museum of Somerset. This widespread display was made possible by grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Art Fund, and other organizations.
The discovery of the Chew Valley Hoard was welcomed with enthusiasm by government officials and heritage organizations. Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant shared that this treasure offers “a unique insight” into the country’s rich history, especially during the Norman Conquest.
He praised the Treasure Act (1996) for ensuring such historical artifacts are preserved and accessible to the public.
For the Museum of Somerset, the hoard is a dream acquisition. Sam Astill, Chief Executive of the South West Heritage Trust, expressed excitement, noting that this collection will inspire people to learn more about England’s past. This acquisition was made possible thanks to numerous partnerships working together to protect and share England’s heritage.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund also expressed pride in supporting the acquisition, noting the significance of the treasure. They highlighted that the Chew Valley Hoard’s display will allow people from different regions to experience a piece of British history up close, deepening their connection to the past.
Jenny Waldman, Director of the Art Fund, called the Chew Valley Hoard a major addition to Somerset’s museum collection. This acquisition reflects England’s rich history, and by bringing this treasure to the public, the museum aims to provide educational experiences that will benefit both residents and tourists.
Somerset Council Leader Bill Revans sees the hoard as a powerful educational tool. He shared his excitement about the learning opportunities this treasure provides, especially for school children.
The council is dedicated to making the collection accessible to the community through workshops, learning activities, and community events.
This historical find has become a permanent part of Somerset’s heritage, and the council is eager to bring this piece of history to life for generations to come.
As a part of the national collection, the Chew Valley Hoard will continue to be cared for by Somerset Council, ensuring that its value—both historically and culturally—is preserved for future generations.
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