Eleventh Century Coin Hoard Found in Lead Casings – History Blog

A collection of 11th-century coins wrapped tightly in lead sheets was discovered at Sizewell C on the Suffolk coast. The parcel contains 321 silver coins issued between 1036 and 1044, which were originally placed in a textile that disintegrated before the surrounding lead sheets bent.

Sizewell C is the site of a planned nuclear power plant. Contractors Oxford Cotswold Archeology carried out excavation work ahead of construction. The team discovered the hoard at the intersection of two medieval border lines, suggesting that whoever buried it chose the site for easy retrieval. The treasure, still tightly wrapped in lead sheets, was moved to the laboratory, where conservators carefully pried open seams in the lead and dug out the coins from within.

With the exception of two halfpences, these coins are all pennies, so this is a noteworthy change, but not a coin of great value individually or collectively. According to the prices recorded in the laws and regulations of the time, these hoards were enough to purchase 16 cattle. This was most likely the savings of someone who had made a lot of money, perhaps a wealthy local farmer, rather than a member of a regional or national elite.

These coins were issued during the reigns of Harold I “Rabbit’s Foot” (1036-40), Harthacnut (1040-2) and Edward the Confessor (1042-66), most of them by Harold The issuances of Rhodes I, Harthacnut II and Edward the Confessor occupied the final positions with only 24 coins. The newest coins are of the PACX type, issued between the summer of 1042 and the end of 1044, early in Edward’s reign. These coins are minted by more than 30 different mints. Approximately 40% of coins are struck in London; another is struck at mints across England, including Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Bedford, Huntingdon, Cambridge, Lincoln, Stamford, Uxbridge and Lamport.

Archaeologists believe the recent appearance of the coins indicates why the treasure was buried. Edward the Confessor was the first ruler of the House of Wessex to regain the English throne after Canute and his sons Harold I and Harthacnut had ruled Denmark for 25 years. Edward is known to have confiscated lands and exiled people considered enemies in the early years of his reign, and treasures were discovered across England in 1042-44.

Damian Leydon, Sizewell C’s site delivery director, said the discovery was “extraordinary”.

“This project gives us a rare and fascinating glimpse into Suffolk’s rich history, deepening our understanding of this part of the UK,” he added.

“We plan to work with Oxford Cotswold Archeology to make these findings as accessible to the public as possible.”