Throughout history, there have been many tales of hidden treasures, especially buried coin hoards. These hoards, often lying unnoticed for decades or even centuries, capture the imagination of treasure hunters and history enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will share six remarkable stories of lost coins that were found long after they were hidden, each offering a unique look into the past and the significant value of these discoveries.
1. The Great Kentucky Hoard: Civil War-Era Coins Unearthed
In 2023, a person in Kentucky discovered more than 700 Civil War-era coins buried in a cornfield. Known as the “Great Kentucky Hoard,” these coins include rare U.S. gold dollars, Liberty coins, and Double Eagles. The collection is valued at around $2 million, offering a direct connection to a tumultuous time in American history. These coins serve as important reminders of the past, bringing history to life for many who study it.
2. The 1975 ‘No S’ Dime: A Family’s Hidden Fortune
In 2024, three sisters from Ohio sold a rare 1975 Roosevelt dime that was missing the “S” mintmark for an incredible $506,250. Their brother had bought the dime in 1978 for $18,200, and it remained hidden in a bank vault as a financial backup. This dime is one of only two of its kind known to exist, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world today.
3. The Chew Valley Hoard: A Glimpse into Post-Norman Conquest England
In 2019, metal detectorists found over 2,500 silver coins in southwest England, dating back to the time of William the Conqueror. The “Chew Valley Hoard” includes coins from the period after the Norman Conquest of England, around 1,000 years ago. Valued at £4.3 million ($5.6 million), this hoard provides rare insight into the history of medieval England, shedding light on the lives of the people during this significant period.
4. The Lost French Gold: A Revolutionary War-Era Mystery
During the French and Indian War, French soldiers hid their payroll of gold coins near Minerva, Ohio, in 1755. This treasure was meant to keep the coins from falling into British hands. After a skirmish, the soldiers buried the gold, and only two survived. Despite attempts to locate the “Lost French Gold,” it remains missing, leaving treasure hunters and historians intrigued by its elusive nature.
5. The Great Silver Horde: A Novice’s Lucky Find
In early 2024, a man named Mickey Richardson won a metal detector in a raffle and, within months, discovered a hoard of 234 silver coins in Ansty, England. These coins, buried during the English Civil War in 1644, were sold for £23,000 at auction. This unexpected find shows how even novices can stumble upon life-changing treasures when least expected.
6. The Norwegian Church Coins: Childhood Discovery Revealed After 60 Years
In 1964, two brothers exploring beneath the floorboards of Edøy Church in Norway found 14 medieval silver coins and other artifacts. These coins, hidden for more than 60 years, were finally reported to authorities in 2023. The coins are now preserved as part of Norway’s medieval heritage, providing a unique look into the past.
These stories of lost coins found after many years demonstrate how history can resurface in the most unexpected ways. Each discovery is not just a financial windfall but a valuable glimpse into different moments in history. Whether it’s the Civil War, the Norman Conquest, or the Revolutionary War, these hidden hoards remind us of the enduring appeal of buried treasures.
1. What is the most valuable coin ever found?
The Great Kentucky Hoard is valued at around $2 million, with Civil War-era coins and Liberty coins being highly sought after.
2. Why are coins without a mintmark so valuable?
Coins missing a mintmark, like the 1975 ‘No S’ dime, are extremely rare and hard to find, which makes them highly valuable to collectors.
3. How did treasure hunters find the Chew Valley Hoard?
Metal detectorists uncovered the Chew Valley Hoard in 2019 while scanning a farmer’s field in southwest England.
4. Where is the Lost French Gold hidden?
The Lost French Gold, buried in 1755 by French soldiers, is still missing, with no one knowing its exact location.
5. Why are medieval coins from Norway so important?
The 14 medieval coins discovered in Norway in 1964 offer a rare look into Norway’s history and medieval times, now preserved as part of the country’s heritage.
