Discovery of a Millennia-Old Treasure:
In a remarkable find, a metal detector enthusiast uncovered a rare gold coin in Hampshire county in March 2023. This ancient artifact, minted by a relatively unknown ruler from the Iron Age, was recently auctioned for a significant sum, highlighting its rarity and historical importance.
Unearthing Ancient British History:
- The Coin’s Auction: On September 28, the coin was auctioned off by Spink auction house for 20,400 British pounds (approximately $24,720).
- Inscription and Interpretation: Featuring a Latin alphabetic inscription, the coin bears the name “Esunertos,” a name translated to mean “mighty as the god Esos” (also known as Esus). This suggests a divine or semi-divine status claimed by the ruler.
- Linguistic Roots: John Sills, an archaeologist at the University of Oxford, notes that the name “Esunertos” is Gaulish, reflecting the linguistic landscape of the region during that era.
Dating the Discovery:
- A Timeline of its Origin: The coin is believed to have been minted between 50 B.C. and 30 B.C. This period is significant as it follows Julius Caesar’s unsuccessful invasions of Britain around 55 B.C. to 54 B.C., which attempted to bring the island under Roman control.
- Historical Context: Permanent Roman rule was not established in Britain until the invasion led by Emperor Claudius in A.D. 43. This coin represents a snapshot of a time before the Roman Empire’s lasting dominance over part of Britain.