Nuclear plant site uncovers 1,000-year-old treasure: 'Remarkable discovery'

A 1,000-year-old treasure was discovered by archaeologists in the UK at a nuclear power plant construction site.

In a press release on Jan. 7, Oxford Cotswold Archaeology (OCA) revealed the discovery of 321 silver coins at the Sizewell C nuclear power station site in Suffolk, England.

The coins were minted between 1036 and 1044, according to the organization, which is almost 200 years before the Magna Carta and a few decades before the Battle of Hastings. These coins were discovered in excellent condition in a lead and cloth container, which resembles a Cornish pasty.

"The hoard was discovered at the intersection of two ancient field boundary ditches, suggesting intentional concealment. The coins were meticulously placed within a fabric item, possibly a purse, and then encased in lead sheeting."

"The 11th century English monetary and political landscapes are revealed through this remarkable discovery."

During the reigns of three House of Wessex kings - Harold I, Harthacnut, and Edward the Confessor - the coins within the hoard were minted. The majority of the coins were struck in London, while some were produced in English towns such as Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Stamford.

During a tumultuous period in English history, Harold and Harthacnut, both sons of Cnut, were born. Sweyn Forkbeard, their grandfather, became the first Danish king to rule England. Edward the Confessor passed away in January 1066, just before the Normans took control of England following the Battle of Hastings.

It is believed by archaeologists that the individual who owned the coins may have been robbed during a regime change, possibly occurring during Edward's coronation in 1043.

"The OCA stated that some wealthy individuals linked to the previous regime were exiled or had their property seized following Edward's coronation. Similarly, the owner of the coin hoard may have feared the consequences of the regime change and buried their wealth as a precaution, intending to retrieve it at a later time."

"The reason why this treasure was never retrieved remains uncertain, as the owner may have been hindered from returning to the location, passed away before they could retrieve their savings, or were unable to locate the exact burial spot."

The 321 coins recovered would have been worth 320 pence, including two halfpence coins. The archaeological organization stated that it is challenging to determine the current purchasing power but it was similar to a "savings pot."

"The OCA stated that although it is difficult to compare the value of the sum of money to modern-day purchasing power, evidence from 10th and 11th century law codes suggests that cattle were worth about 20p each. Using this metric, we can estimate that it could have bought approximately 16 cows, which is a small herd."

Archaeologists stated that the treasure, despite being a significant amount, would be closer in value to an affluent individual's savings than the entire wealth of a king.

"The hoard is not necessarily a sign of extreme wealth, as it may have been owned by a wealthy farmer or someone of local clout."

Alexander Bliss, a coin specialist at OCA, stated that the analysis of the hoard required input from multiple specialists and project partners in numismatics, finds, and conservation.

""Edward the Confessor's accession to the English throne was marked by uncertainty and concern within wider society, as evidenced by this new coin hoard. It has been an honor and a privilege to contribute to bringing its story to life," Bliss said."