Treasure hunters uncover lost hoard of medieval coins

Some are almost 800 years old

A group of treasure hunters from Devon have uncovered a hoard of 21 medieval silver coins - some of which are almost 800 years old. The ancient groats and pennies had been lying under the ground for centuries on land close to Okehampton Castle.

They were uncovered by five detectorists from Teignbridge History Finders, a club set up just over a year ago in Newton Abbot. Jim Luxton, a lorry driver who runs the club in his spare time, described the find as "amazing" and their first significant discovery.

He said: "I set this small club up about a year ago so to find something so significant like this so soon was fantastic. I organised a group dig in the parish of Okehampton and not too far away from Okehampton Castle.

"I believe the discovery could be linked to the castle. In those days it would have been a lot of money to lose or maybe hidden. We affectionally named it the Okey hoard but officially it is a hoard found in the parish of Okehampton.

He said the coins were found over an area of around three metres, something known as a scattered hoard. He explained how the find happened and gave credit to members of the team.

"At first it was three coins. I then got a call to say I had better get over to the area as we had found another eight coins.

"A few weeks later we had a revisit where I found the last coin to make it a staggering 21 coins. Credit goes to the five finders Paul May, Neil King, Pete Young, Clive Hammett and Jim Luxton. Also the landowner who wishes to remain anonymous."

The coins have been verified as dating from 1282AD to 1434AD. The groats are from the reigns of Edward III (1327-1377) and Henry VI (1422-1461) Whilst the pennies span from the reign of Edward I (1272-1307) to Henry VI.

It is not known exactly when the coins were deposited in the ground. But it is thought to have been around the time the last one was minted in 1430. The wear on the older coins indicates they had been in circulation for a long period. The larger coins clearly show the face of Henry VI.

Also on the dig that day a King John (1199-1216AD) short cross penny and two unidentified roman coins were found.

Due to their age and composition of over 10 per cent precious metal, the hoard is classed as treasure under the Treasure Act 1996. When treasure is found, it must be reported to the local coroner and the landowner.

Jim says the coins may end up in a museum and be put on display. He admits the coins, though of important historic value, will not make any of the team rich.

Teignbridge History Finders are a non-profit club that cover mainly Devon. Jim says he has always had a passion for history and started the club simply for the joy he gets looking for history under his feet.

Anyone interested in joining should email jamesluxton55@btinternet.com