Archaeological treasures discovered in Suffolk and Dorset

Significant archaeological treasures have been discovered in England through accidental finds during routine activities.

In Suffolk, a metal detector search by Eric Lawes in 1992 led to the discovery of the ‘Hoxne Hoard’. This collection, identified as the largest Late Roman treasure found on the British Isles, consists of 14,865 gold, silver, and bronze coins, along with precious gold jewelry and silver tableware. The find is valued at approximately $4.3 million and is exhibited at the British Museum.

In Dorset, homeowners Robert and Betty Fooks discovered the ‘Poorton Coin Hoard’ during renovations at South Poorton Farm. While excavating a kitchen floor, they uncovered a glazed pot containing 1,029 gold and silver coins. Analysis suggests the coins were buried between 1642 and 1644, with some dating back to the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. Following documentation by the British Museum, the collection was sold at auction in April 2024 for a price exceeding its £35,000 estimate.