Metal detector users discovered a hoard of medieval coins from the 15th century on the Scottish border

Two metal detector users recently found a hoard of medieval coins from the 15th century on the Scottish border. Keith Young and Lisa Stephenson were in the Cappercleuch area when their detectors began to signal. They discovered a treasure they never expected. This hoard includes thirty gold and silver coins left in the area between the early to mid-1460s.

Later, archaeologists found five more coins at the excavation site. The Treasure Trove Unit (TTU) received reports about the finds. This unit evaluates all archaeological discoveries in Scotland. The artifacts will go to the Scottish Archaeological Finds Allocation Panel (SAFAP). This panel will determine a monetary value as a reward for the finders.

The discovered coins feature a mix of Scottish and English currency. They include Scottish gold coins and half coins from James I (1406-1437) and James II (1437-1460). Additionally, the hoard contains English silver groats minted between the reigns of Henry V (1413-1422) and Edward IV (1461-1483).

The coins will go through the Treasure System. After detailed examinations, they will be offered to accredited museums through SAFAP. Keith Young expressed his excitement, saying, “Lisa and I have been lucky to find amazing artifacts, but nothing prepared us for this discovery. I hope this treasure is displayed publicly for others to enjoy.”

Lisa Stephenson added, “This treasure was a once-in-a-lifetime find. Participating in the excavation with the National Museum and Treasure Trove team was unforgettable.”

Antony Lee from the Treasure Trove Unit noted, “It’s not unusual to find coin hoards that mix English and Scottish coins. However, we rarely see treasures from this period in Scotland, making this a fascinating discovery.” He praised Keith and Lisa for promptly reporting their find. This allowed archaeologists from National Museums Scotland to excavate the site, where they found five more coins and documented the hoard’s conditions.