Urgent: Largest Roman Coin Hoard in Welsh History Discovered by Amateur Detectorist
North Wales – October 26, 2025 – A routine metal detecting expedition has turned into an archaeological sensation. David Moss, a 36-year-old from Cheshire, has unearthed a remarkable treasure trove of Roman coins in a field in North Wales, potentially rewriting the history of Roman Britain. This breaking news discovery, estimated to contain up to 15,000 silver and bronze coins, is already generating excitement among historians and archaeologists. This is a story for the ages, and a testament to the enduring power of a little luck and a lot of perseverance.
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A Chance Encounter with History
The incredible find occurred in August 2025, in a field Moss described as “virtually untouched.” After hours of searching without success, his metal detector finally signaled a strong, consistent reading. Digging just 50 centimeters (roughly 19 inches) below the surface, Moss uncovered the first of two clay vessels brimming with ancient currency. “I was shocked,” Moss recounted. “I never thought there would be so many coins under my feet. Perseverance really paid off.”
The total weight of the hoard is approximately 60 kilograms (132 pounds), instantly transforming a hobby into a major archaeological undertaking. Moss immediately contacted the landowner and, understandably anxious about potential theft, spent three nights sleeping in his car guarding the treasure before delivering it to the National Museum Cardiff.
What Do the Coins Tell Us?
Experts believe the coins date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, a period when Roman control over Britain was facing increasing challenges. Anthony Hales, Chairman of the Numismatic Society of South Wales, suggests the coins may have been hidden by Roman legionnaires or merchants during a time of instability. “A scenario is possible in which Roman legionnaires, going on a campaign or during times of unrest, buried the treasury for safekeeping and did not return for it,” Hales explained.
If confirmed, this discovery will surpass the previous Welsh record – a hoard of 10,000 coins found near Chepstow in the 1990s. The coins are currently undergoing conservation and analysis at the National Museum Cardiff, where scientists are studying their composition, coinage, and symbolism to pinpoint their origin and period of circulation. This SEO-optimized research will shed light on trade and military routes within Roman Britain, particularly in the vicinity of the Roman fortresses of Chester and Segontium (modern Carnarvon).
Roman Wales: A Province in Context
The Roman invasion of Britain in 43 AD marked the beginning of nearly four centuries of Roman rule. Wales, strategically important for its resources and location, hosted Roman garrisons and mines. Coins were essential for payments within military camps and bustling market towns. While archaeological evidence of Roman presence in Wales – including roads, pottery, and amphorae – is well-documented, treasures of this magnitude are exceptionally rare. Each new find, like Moss’s, helps reconstruct the economic landscape of this British province.
Comparing Notable Roman Coin Hoards
| Year & Place | Number of Coins | Era | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chepstow, Wales (1990s) | 10,000 | III Century | Largest treasure until 2025 |
| Sally, Glamorgan (2008) | 6,000 | IV Century | Found in a ceramic vessel |
| Frome Hoard, Somerset (2010) | 52,000 | III Century | One of the largest treasures in Britain |
| North Wales (2025) | Up to 15,000 | III-IV Centuries | Potentially the largest in Welsh history |
What Happens Next?
Under UK law, the treasure is classified as state property. An independent commission will assess its value, and any reward will be split between David Moss and the landowner. The National Museum Cardiff plans to exhibit a portion of the treasure after restoration, offering the public a glimpse into the lives of those who lived and traded in Roman Britain.
“I just wanted to find something interesting, and I ended up being part of the story,” Moss humbly stated. His remarkable discovery serves as a powerful reminder that history often lies just beneath our feet, waiting to be unearthed. This find isn’t just about coins; it’s about connecting with the past and understanding the complex story of Roman Britain. Stay tuned to Archyde for further updates on this developing story and other fascinating archaeological discoveries.
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