Archaeologists from the University of Aberdeen have uncovered a rare Pictish ring dating back over a millennium, while a lucky archaeologist has unearthed a massive collection of gold and silver coins from the Roman era.
A team of archaeologists from the University of Aberdeen has made a remarkable discovery during a volunteer dig near Burghead, Scotland. They have unearthed a 1,000-year-old ring, believed to have belonged to the Picts, an ancient Celtic people who inhabited the region. The Picts are renowned for their distinctive tattoos and intricate artwork, and this ring provides a valuable insight into their culture.
The ring, which is made of silver and decorated with intricate knotwork, is thought to have been worn as a symbol of status or to denote membership in a particular group. It bears the inscription "DRU" or "DRUII," which could refer to a person or a place. The discovery is significant as it sheds light on the Pictish society and their artistic traditions.
Ancient Treasure Unearthed: Archaeologists Discover 1,000-Year-Old Ring and Roman Coin Hoard
In a separate development, a 34-year-old archaeologist named George Ridgway has stumbled upon a treasure trove of Roman coins in Suffolk, England. Using a metal detector, Ridgway discovered over 680 gold and silver coins buried in the grounds of Helmingham Hall near Stowmarket.
The coins, which date back to the 1st century BC, provide a valuable glimpse into Roman Britain. They feature the likenesses of famous Roman emperors such as Julius Caesar and Claudius. The hoard also includes Iron Age gold coins issued by Cunobelin, a powerful king of the Catuvellauni tribe.
Ancient Treasure Unearthed: Archaeologists Discover 1,000-Year-Old Ring and Roman Coin Hoard
Ridgway's discovery is considered one of the largest and most significant hoards of Roman coins found in Britain. It has been acquired by two museums, the British Museum and the Colchester & Ipswich Museum, where they will go on display.
The coins sold at auction for a staggering £132,865 (about $177,000), with the money being split between the landowner and Ridgway himself. The young archaeologist plans to use part of his earnings to buy his father a pint, a fitting tribute to the support he has received.
Ancient Treasure Unearthed: Archaeologists Discover 1,000-Year-Old Ring and Roman Coin Hoard
The discovery of the Roman coin hoard has attracted widespread attention from historians and archaeologists. It provides valuable information about the economic and social conditions of Roman Britain, as well as the artistic and technological advancements of the time. The coins not only offer a tangible connection to the past but also serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire.
