An ancient treasure trove consisting of 141 Roman gold coins has been uncovered, shedding new light on the Roman Empire.
Researchers found these coins in Luxembourg, and they date back all the way to the late fourth century.
The discovery is being hailed as one of the most profound finds in the region’s history.
These 1,700-year-old hoards of Roman gold coins were found in the village of Holzthum after being placed near the foundations of a tower-like Roman fort.
The coins are known as solidi, and each weigh an impressive 0.16 ounces (4.5 grams).
Each coin features portraits of eight emperors with three coins portraying one ruler known as Eugenius.
Eugenius was the illegitimate emperor of the Western Roman Empire and reigned for only two years – from 392 to 394.
The coins were introduced as a stable currency and were remarkably well-preserved upon discovery.
Due to the coin’s historical significance, the discovery was kept under wraps for a total of four years.
Excavations took place during 2020 to 2024 under the direction of INRA. The team facing a number of hazardous conditions while working.
These included a number of World War II munitions, such as explosives, which were buried in the area.
In a statement, INRA researchers declared the find “a major archaeological discovery”.
The researchers added that “it is extremely rare to be able to study an entire ancient monetary deposit in its archaeological context.”
The coins were discovered near the remains of a Roman fortified tower which is known as a burgus, serving as a military outpost.
The coin discovery alongside other artifacts and nearby graves have helped provide a glimpse into life along the Roman Empire’s frontier defenses.
The value of this hoard is estimated to be around
Experts estimate the value of the hoard at approximately £261.331 ($322,000) with the landowner being compensated for the find as per Luxembourg’s cultural heritage laws.
The findings of this impressive hoard will soon be published by INRA researchers in a scientific journal, shedding light on the growing influence of Germanic groups such as the Franks.
