In an extraordinary stroke of luck and persistence, Laurence Egerton, a 51-year-old amateur metal detectorist, made one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in British history: a massive hoard of Roman coins buried for centuries beneath the earth near Seaton, East Devon.

While exploring the area with his metal detector, Egerton picked up strong signals from the ground. After a bit of careful digging, he uncovered a large buried ceramic pot—packed to the brim with gold and silver Roman coins. The find turned out to be one of the largest Roman coin hoards ever discovered in the UK, containing over 22,000 coins dating from the late 3rd century AD, during the reign of emperors such as Carausius and Allectus.

Fearing that treasure hunters or looters might try to seize the discovery, Egerton made a bold decision—he camped out at the site for three nights straight, guarding the hoard until professional archaeologists could arrive and secure the area. His dedication ensured that the treasure was properly excavated and preserved for study.

The hoard was later moved to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter, where the coins were examined, cataloged, and put on display. Experts believe the coins may have been hidden during a period of political turmoil in Roman Britain, possibly to keep them safe from invading forces or civil unrest.

A Glimpse Into Roman Britain’s Turbulent Past

The coins, some remarkably well-preserved, include detailed images of Roman emperors and Latin inscriptions. The find sheds light not only on Roman economic systems but also on the regional autonomy and rebellions that characterized late Roman rule in Britain. Especially notable is the inclusion of coins bearing the likeness of Emperor Carausius, a military commander who declared himself emperor of Britain and northern Gaul around AD 286.

The discovery has captivated historians, archaeologists, and the public alike. It serves as a testament to the rich, layered history buried beneath the British countryside—and the invaluable role that passionate amateurs like Laurence Egerton can play in uncovering it.