Floor renovation reveals 400-year-old treasure
A couple in England discovered a hoard of 17th-century gold and silver coins while excavating the floor of their old farmhouse.
A couple in England discovered an amazing hoard of ancient coins while digging up the floor of their old farmhouse to expand their living space. Some of the coins date back to the 17th century.
The discovery occurred when Robert Fox was excavating the ground to increase the height of the room. While using a pickaxe, he struck ancient jars containing approximately 100 gold and silver coins from the era of Queen Elizabeth I and other monarchs.
The couple immediately reported the find to the British Museum. Experts who examined the coins concluded they were likely hidden between 1642 and 1644, during the height of the English Civil War.
At that time, people feared looting soldiers and frequently hid their savings in secret locations within walls or beneath floorboards. Many owners never returned to retrieve their assets, having lost their lives in the conflict.
The collection, known as the "Fokkert Hoard," was eventually sold at auction for approximately 75,000 dollars, providing the couple with both a financial windfall and a fascinating insight into their home's history.
