Leicestershire Metal Detectorist Unearths Roman Coin Hoard, Sells for £4,400 at Auction

A collection of 50 Roman coins, discovered by metal detectorist David Dunn in a field near Sapcote, Leicestershire, exceeded expectations at a recent auction. Dunn, a bathroom fitter who took up metal detecting as a hobby, unearthed the coins in July 2023. The coins, identified as Antoninianus, were auctioned at Noonans Mayfair in London. Initially estimated to fetch between £1,200 and £1,500, the collection sparked a fierce bidding war, ultimately selling for £4,400 to an online bidder in the United States. The oldest coins date back to the reign of Emperor Carausius, who seized power in 286 AD. Dunn, who will share the proceeds with the landowner, expressed his excitement at the outcome. He stated that he began metal detecting to enjoy the outdoors and never anticipated such a significant discovery. He added that he plans to continue metal detecting, emphasizing the importance of preserving history.