Ancient Coin Hoard to Remain in Suffolk After Being Donated to Archaeological Service

Strategic Insights -

An exceptional collection of 321 ancient coins, dating back to the 11th century, has been donated to the Suffolk County Council's Archaeological Service (SCCAS) by the Sizewell C nuclear power plant project. The hoard, discovered during excavation works last year, includes coins minted between 1036 and 1044 during the reigns of Harold I, Edward the Confessor, and Harthacnut. The coins were found in a lead and cloth package, dubbed "the pasty" due to its shape, and are now undergoing further conservation and research by specialists.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ancient coin hoard, consisting of 321 coins, was discovered during excavation works near the Sizewell C nuclear power plant site last year.
  • The coins were minted between 1036 and 1044, during the reigns of Harold I, Edward the Confessor, and Harthacnut.
  • Most coins were minted in London, while many were also struck at locations such as Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Stamford.
  • One theory suggests that the hoard was the savings pot of a local figure who buried it during a period of social and political upheaval in the 11th century.
  • Sizewell C has donated the hoard, along with the rest of the excavated archive from the site, to the county council's archaeological archive.
  • The hoard will be curated for posterity in Suffolk and made available to researchers and the public for short-term loan to local and national museums.
  • Councillor Debbie Richards, Suffolk County Council's deputy cabinet member for Archaeology and Landscape Partnerships, expressed her "thrill" at the donation, highlighting the county council's commitment to monitoring archaeological projects and preserving treasures.
  • Damian Leydon, site delivery director at Sizewell C, emphasized the project's respect for history and its commitment to keeping the treasures in their Suffolk home for public access and research.

Statistics:

  • 321 ancient coins were found in the hoard.
  • Coins were minted between 1036 and 1044.
  • Most coins were minted in London (number not specified).
  • Coins were also struck at locations including Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Stamford (number not specified).
  • The lead and cloth package containing the coins was referred to as "the pasty" due to its shape.

Sources:

  • Oxford Cotswold Archaeology
  • Suffolk County Council's Archaeological Service (SCCAS)
  • Harold I penny with a fleur-de-lys type image
  • Councillor Debbie Richards, Suffolk County Council's deputy cabinet member for Archaeology and Landscape Partnerships
  • Damian Leydon, site delivery director at Sizewell C