Poorton Coin Hoard discovered during farmhouse renovation in England

While renovating a farmhouse at South Poorton in West Dorset, England, Robert and Betty Fooks discovered a historical treasure worth approximately €70,000. The discovery occurred five years ago when Robert Fooks struck a glazed ceramic vessel while digging to deepen a floor.

The vessel contained a collection of approximately 100 coins, now known as the "Poorton Coin Hoard." The assortment includes gold coins from the reigns of James I and Charles I, as well as silver half-crowns, shillings, and sixpence from the eras of Elizabeth I and Philip and Mary.

Experts from the British Museum analyzed the collection and concluded the coins were likely hidden all at once between 1642 and 1644 during the First English Civil War. This period of conflict often prompted individuals to hide wealth to protect it from passing armies. The collection was eventually sold at Duke’s Auction House.