11th century coins discovered at Sizewell C construction site

The 321 mint-condition coins were found by archaeologists during excavations wrapped in a lead and cloth package, barely bigger than a Cornish pasty.

A collection of 321 mint-condition silver coins from the 11th century have been found at the site of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station being built on the Suffolk coast.

The coins were found during excavations wrapped in a lead and cloth package, barely bigger than a Cornish pasty.

As a result, the treasure's now jokingly being referred to as 'the pasty'.

They were found minted between 1036 and 1044 during the reigns of Harold I, Harthacnut, and Edward the Confessor.

Experts believe they probably belonged to a local figure worried about political instability following Edward the Confessor's coronation in 1042.

They think it would've been worth about the value of a small herd of cows.

Alexander Bliss, Coin Specialist at Oxford Cotswold Archaeology (OCA), said: “This new coin hoard provides us with valuable insight into the rich historical backdrop of this period, adding to the evidence that Edward the Confessor’s accession to the English throne was marked by a degree of uncertainty and concern within wider society.

“Analysing this new coin hoard has been a wholly collaborative effort, involving valuable input from multiple specialists and project partners in the fields of numismatics, finds and conservation. To play a small part in bringing its story to life has been an honour and a privilege.”

Andrew Pegg, Archaeologist at OCA, who discovered the coins, said: “The Pasty, as it was immediately and affectionately named for obvious reasons, was a true privilege to find.

"I was shaking when I first unearthed it, seeing a single coin edge peeking at me!

"A perfect archaeological time capsule. The information we are learning from it is stunning and I’m so proud to have added to the history of my own little part of Suffolk.”

Damian Leydon, Site Delivery Director at Sizewell C, said: “The discovery of the 11th-century coin hoard is an extraordinary find.

"Archaeology is an important step in the Sizewell C project, helping us understand what lies beneath the ground before construction begins.

"This project provides a rare and fascinating glimpse into Suffolk’s rich history, deepening our understanding of this part of Britain.

"In partnership with Oxford Cotswold Archaeology, we plan to make these discoveries as accessible to the public as possible.”

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