The Frome Hoard

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The Frome Hoard is a spectacular archaeological discovery and a landmark find for Roman studies. It's the largest Roman hoard to have been found in a single container, with 52,503 Roman coins ranging from 253-293 AD. 

It was discovered in 2020 by metal detectorist Dave Crisp. The latest coins in the hoard were halfway down the container, so it's clear that the pot was filled with multiple smaller collections, suggesting a local group making a communal offering. Over 25 different rulers are represented in the hoard, including several from a breakaway ‘Gallic’ Empire. 

Thanks to our grant, the Museum of Somerset in Taunton, acquired the coins for public display.