A spectacular discovery of ancient Roman coins has been made by a group of dedicated metal detectorists in the Kent countryside, fulfilling a lifelong ambition for the finders.
The Discovery of a Lifetime
Steve Dean, aged 68, alongside friends Glenn Church, 69, and Ed Denovan, 70, made the remarkable find in a farmer's field near Maidstone. After approximately twenty years of pursuing his hobby, Mr Dean described the moment as his 'bucket list' achievement. Despite Mr Church beginning his metal detecting journey in the 1970s, none of the trio had ever discovered a treasure hoard before.
The initial discovery came after about an hour of searching, when they found several coins scattered across the terrain. Their excitement grew as they continued to uncover more, eventually leading them to the main cache. Approximately 400 Roman coins were found nestled within the remains of a damaged pot, buried roughly 14 inches underground.
Preserving History
Understanding the historical importance of their find, the group immediately ceased digging and contacted archaeological professionals. Dr Andrew Richardson and Paul-Samuel Armour from Isle Heritage arrived within the hour to conduct a proper excavation. The team believes the coins are around 1,800 years old.
The hoard was likely scattered across the field when the original pot was shattered by routine ploughing. "This pot was the base of the original hoard, placed in the ground some 1,800 years ago," explained Mr Dean, a grandfather of eight who also served in the police force for 32 years. The exact location of the find is being kept confidential to protect the site from unauthorised 'nighthawkers'.
What Happens Next?
The valuable coins have been transported to the British Museum, where specialists will conduct a detailed examination. This process to determine the hoard's precise value could take up to two years. Once the valuation is complete, the Museum will be given first refusal to acquire the collection.
Any proceeds from a potential sale will be divided equally between the three detectorists and the landowner who permitted the search on their property. The friends hope to return to the field for further investigation next year, after the farmer's current crop has been harvested.
