Roman coins haul declared treasure

A metal detector enthusiast who found one of the largest hoards of Roman coins in the UK is could get a substantial reward after his find was declared treasure at an inquest.

By The Newsroom

Published 23rd Jul 2010, 10:40 BST

Updated 23rd Jul 2010, 10:40 BST

Dave Crisp, from Wiltshire, found about 52,000 coins dating from the 3rd century AD buried in a field near Frome in Somerset in April.

The coins, made from debased silver or bronze, were in a ceramic pot just over a foot underground.

The find also included coins issued during the reign of Carausius from 286 to 293. He was the first Roman emperor to strike coins in Britain.

Mr Crisp said: "I have been metal detecting since 1988 and this hoard is the most exciting and important find that I have ever made."

The find was declared treasure and property of the Crown at an inquest in Frome yesterday.

Under the Treasure Act, Somerset County Council heritage service can buy the hoard for the Museum of Somerset when it reopens next year.

The amount to be split between Mr Crisp and the landowner will be set by the Treasure Valuation Committee.

Somerset