Historic coin haul discovered in Suffolk sells for £132k at auction

In September 2019, George Ridgway, a trained archaeologist, discovered a remarkable hoard of 680 gold and silver coins at Helmingham Hall in Suffolk. The coins date back to as early as 206 BC and extend to 46 or 47 AD, during the reign of Emperor Claudius. This find is significant as it includes both Iron Age and Roman coins, with many in 'as struck' condition. The discovery is believed to be linked to a long-serving soldier from the XX Legion, stationed near Colchester. The auction of these coins took place recently, with the total proceeds reaching an impressive £132,000, far exceeding the initial estimate of £75,000. Alice Cullen, a coin specialist at Noonans Mayfair, expressed her satisfaction with the auction results, highlighting the historical importance of the hoard. The highest selling coin was a Denarius of Gaius Caesar, known as Caligula, which fetched £7,000, significantly above its estimated value. The British Museum, along with Colchester and Ipswich Museums, claimed 63 of the 748 coins for their collections, ensuring that a portion of this historical treasure will be preserved for public education and enjoyment. The discovery and subsequent auction not only highlight the rich history of the region but also the potential for future archaeological finds. This event underscores the importance of metal detecting and archaeology in uncovering Britain's past. Ridgway's find serves as a reminder of the historical narratives that lie beneath the surface, waiting to be uncovered and appreciated by future generations.