Cumbrian Metal Detectorist Uncovers Rare Historic Hoard: Treasure Trove of Charles I Coins Found

Justin Bell, a metal detector enthusiast, discovered the county's initial trove of coins from King Charles I's reign, dating back to 1633-1643. The hoard, valued at a month's wage at the time, includes three half crowns and a shilling. Deemed "treasure" by the coroner, the British Museum has expressed interest in acquiring the coins, which represent a significant historical find for Cumbria, as only 89 Charles I coins have been recorded in the county. The discovery adds to the understanding of Charles I's reign, marked by disputes with parliament and the English Civil War.

Cumbrian Metal Detectorist Unearths Historic Treasure Trove: Charles I Coin Hoard Unearthed

In a remarkable discovery that has stirred excitement in the annals of archaeology, Justin Bell, an avid metal detectorist and mathematics teacher, stumbled upon an unprecedented treasure trove dating back to the tumultuous reign of King Charles I. On a fateful weekend expedition in March 2020, Bell, alongside two fellow metal detection enthusiasts, embarked on a leisurely treasure hunt in the verdant pastures of Lamplugh, Allerdale. Little did they know that their adventure would lead to the uncovering of a priceless historical artifact.

Amidst the quiet serenity of the countryside, their metal detectors began to emit a tantalizing symphony of beeps, signaling the presence of metallic objects hidden beneath the earth's surface. With bated breath and trembling hands, they carefully excavated the ground, revealing a cache of ancient coins that sent shockwaves through the archaeological community. The hoard comprised three half crowns and a solitary shilling, bearing the effigy of Charles I and minted between 1633 and 1643.

To the astonishment of historians, this discovery marks the first hoard of coins from Charles I's reign to be unearthed in Cumbria. Its significance is further amplified by the fact that only 89 individual Charles I coins have been previously documented within the county. This extraordinary find, therefore, represents an invaluable addition to the historical record, shedding new light on a hitherto underrepresented era in Cumbria's rich tapestry.

The reign of Charles I, a tumultuous period characterized by bitter conflicts with Parliament, culminated in the outbreak of the English Civil War and the monarch's tragic execution in 1649. The discovery of the coins, with their contemporary face value of 102 pence (roughly equivalent to an average monthly wage at the time), offers a poignant glimpse into the economic and social realities of that turbulent century.

Commenting on the exceptional nature of the find, Assistant Coroner for Cumbria, Ms. Margaret Taylor, echoed the collective excitement: "I am delighted to declare these coins as 'treasure'," she affirmed. "Their historical significance cannot be overstated, and their inclusion in the British Museum's collection would afford the public an opportunity to witness firsthand these precious artifacts."

Mr. Bell, the fortunate discoverer, reflected upon the significance of his find: "It's extraordinary to think that these coins, representing a month's wages, would not have been used for everyday purchases. They may have belonged to a merchant who lost a purse during a transaction."

Remarkably, this is not the first time Mr. Bell has stumbled upon historical treasure. He has previously unearthed five other treasure hoards, ranging from Viking to Roman eras, all within a remarkable radius of ten minutes' drive. Ms. Taylor remarked, "Given Cumbria's relatively small population and vast expanse, the plethora of archaeological discoveries in the county is truly astonishing."

The discovery of the Charles I coin hoard has reignited interest in the county's rich historical heritage. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of metal detecting as a means of unearthing hidden treasures and unlocking the secrets of the past. As the coins make their way to the British Museum, they will undoubtedly captivate visitors and inspire generations to come, offering a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal periods in English history.