A Glimpse into History: The Discovery of a Rare Roman Silver Coin
In a remarkable turn of events, a rare Roman silver coin has been unearthed by a metal detectorist in Cambridgeshire, capturing the attention of collectors and historians alike. This extraordinary find, estimated to fetch between £5,000 and £6,000 at auction, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and highlights the enduring allure of metal detecting as a hobby.
The Finder: Paul Capewell
Paul Capewell, a 59-year-old retired builder from Selston, Nottinghamshire, has been passionate about metal detecting for over four decades. His journey began as a shared interest with his father, and it has blossomed into a dedicated pursuit. Capewell has spent more than 20 years exploring a particular field in Cambridgeshire, where he has previously discovered several Roman and Medieval coins. However, nothing could prepare him for the excitement of his latest find.
The Discovery
The serendipitous moment occurred in November 2022, just as Capewell was about to leave the field. With only five meters to go before reaching his car, he received a signal from his metal detector. Digging down eight inches, he uncovered a silver Roman coin that would soon prove to be of immense historical significance. Initially unaware of its rarity, Capewell sought the expertise of a coin dealer, who confirmed the coin’s exceptional value.
Historical Significance
The coin, issued by Emperor Trajan in 107 AD, is a rare specimen, with only two examples of this specific type recorded for sale in the last 25 years, according to Nigel Mills, a Coins and Artefacts Specialist at Noonans. Trajan, known for his military conquests and extensive building projects, issued a limited number of coins that often recalled significant events from the past. This particular coin features a striking design: a bust of Juno Moneta on one side, and tools for striking coins on the reverse, symbolizing the very process of coin production.
Mills elaborated on the coin’s design, noting its connection to earlier Roman issues, specifically referencing a coin by the moneyer Titus Carisius from 46 BC. "A coin showing how a coin is made!" Mills remarked, highlighting the unique nature of this artifact.
The Auction
The rare Roman silver coin is set to be auctioned at Noonans Mayfair in London on Tuesday, October 22, as part of a sale dedicated to Ancient Coins and Antiquities. With a pre-sale estimate of £5,000 to £6,000, the coin has attracted significant interest from collectors and historians eager to own a piece of history. The auction presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire an artifact that not only holds monetary value but also tells a story of the Roman Empire’s rich history.
Future Plans
Capewell, who has faced health challenges, including a heart attack that led to his retirement from the building trade, plans to split the proceeds of the auction with the landowner of the field where he made his discovery. He is contemplating using his share to purchase a new Minelab Manticore detector, which would enhance his future explorations, or to contribute towards his pending heart surgery.
Conclusion
The discovery of this rare Roman silver coin serves as a reminder of the treasures that lie beneath our feet, waiting to be uncovered by those with a passion for history and exploration. Paul Capewell’s extraordinary find not only enriches our understanding of the Roman Empire but also highlights the personal journeys of those who dedicate their time to metal detecting. As the auction date approaches, the excitement surrounding this remarkable artifact continues to grow, promising to captivate the imaginations of many for years to come.