Remarkable silver coin hoard donated to county council

Sizewell C has donated a remarkable hoard of over three hundred 11th century silver coins, discovered during excavation work, to Suffolk County Council’s Archaeological Service. 

Unearthed in April 2023 by archaeologists working on behalf of the new power station under construction on the Suffolk coast, the coins were found in mint condition and carefully wrapped in lead and cloth. 

Dating from 1036 to 1044, the hoard includes coins from the reigns of Harold I, Harthacnut, and Edward the Confessor. While many were minted in London, others originated from towns and cities such as Thetford, Norwich, Ipswich, Lincoln, and Stamford. 

Affectionately nicknamed ‘the pasty’ – due to its resemblance to a Cornish pasty – the hoard of 321 coins is believed to have been a savings pot buried by a local figure as a precaution during a time of significant social and political unrest in the 11th Century. 

Damian Leydon, Site Delivery Director at Sizewell C, said: “It is important for us that the Sizewell C project respects the history that lies underneath the site. And it is equally important that we find a way to keep the treasures and discoveries in their Suffolk home for people to see. 

“By working with Suffolk County Council’s Archaeological Service, and donating these finds to them, this is the best possible way to ensure their conservation and make them accessible to researchers and the public.” 

Discovered by Oxford Cotswold Archaeology near the site of the future power station, the hoard will now be curated in Suffolk and made available for academic research. Local and national museums will also be able to apply for short-term loans, allowing wider public access to the collection. 

Councillor Debbie Richards, Suffolk County Council’s deputy cabinet member for Archaeology and Landscape Partnerships, said: “We are thrilled that Sizewell C are kindly donating this hoard, along with the rest of the excavated archive from the site, to the council’s archaeological archive.  

“Our officers monitor all archaeological projects in the county to ensure excavation is carried out to a high standard. Our Finds recording team also administers all Treasure finds from the county, including this exquisite silver coin hoard.” 

The construction of Sizewell C, which began in 2024, has revealed a fascinating glimpse into life along the Suffolk coast. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of prehistoric settlements dating back to the Bronze Age, Roman-era salt production, and the remains of numerous medieval ovens and structures. 

Many of these artefacts have been showcased through community open days and public talks, helping to bring the region’s rich history to life. 

Earlier this month, over a thousand people joined a free webinar hosted by Oxford Cotswold Archaeology – the first in a series planned for autumn and winter. These webinars present findings from the ongoing excavations and offer the public a chance to engage directly with the experts behind the discoveries. 

On 25 October, a free open day at the Riverside Centre in Stratford St Andrew will highlight finds from the Two Village Bypass, offering another opportunity for the community to explore the area’s archaeological heritage. 

Marjorie Barnes, Head of Regional External Affairs and Development, Sizewell C, said: “The popularity of these events highlights just how important history and heritage are to the people of East Suffolk. As a project, we’re committed to making as many of these archaeological discoveries as accessible as possible. It’s not just about showcasing the finds – it’s about giving communities the opportunity to learn from them and connect more deeply with the lives of those who once called this county home.”  

A webinar, hosted by Oxford Cotswold Archaeology, discussing the discovery of the silver coin hoard is being held on 4 December, while a talk examining Medieval remains found around Leiston Abbey will be held in Cambridge on 2 February.  

For more information, visit: https://cotswoldarchaeology.co.uk/