Post-medieval coins unearthed in Cumbria formally declared as treasure
They were found near Kirkby Stephen
A hoard of post-medieval coins unearthed near Kirkby Stephen have formally been declared treasure — and could soon be put on display to the public.
A Cockermouth Coroners’ Court inquest was held at the request of British Museum experts who inspected the three coins after they were discovered in the parish of Ravenstonedale on 15th October, 2023.
“They were found at approximately six inches depth on rough grazing land,” stated coroner Ms Margaret Taylor during a short court hearing.
Two coins — a shilling and a threepence — displayed the busts of Elizabeth I, while a third, another shilling, showed Charles I.
They were found by a man using a metal detector, and the landowner had been made aware of the find.
“I have received a report from the British Museum, who have confirmed that the coins are post-medieval, dating from between 1574 and 1648,” said Ms Taylor, who outlined the fine historical detail of each coin as set out by British Museum personnel.
“I’m told that the hoard contains more than one silver coin of precious metal and is over 300 years old. It therefore meets the criteria for treasure under the Treasure Act 1996.
“Penrith and Eden Museum has expressed an interest in acquiring them, and it is for this reason we are proceeding to inquest,” added Ms Taylor.
“I therefore have no hesitation in confirming that these coins do, in fact, qualify as treasure and this will be reflected on the record of inquest.”