Researchers are now sharing various theories about the origins of the treasure trove of silver denarii. It was discovered by an explorer from the Livorno archaeological group during an expedition in a Tuscan forest. Near a cleared area of trees, he stumbled upon a fortune buried in a terracotta pot.
Almost all of the 175 coins were in good condition, except for two that were damaged but could be restored. This is one of the few collections from that period where nearly all the ancient coins have survived intact. The oldest of these rarities date back to 157 or 156 B.C., while the most recent are from 83 or 82 B.C. The current value of such a treasure amounts to tens of thousands of dollars. Most importantly, it has provided researchers with a wealth of valuable numismatic and historical information, according to CNN.
What the Researchers Revealed
The discovery has raised numerous questions. Whose treasure is it? From whom did the owner hide the coins? And why, ultimately, did he never return for them?
For over a year, a team of experts measured, weighed, and documented the coins. They have finally put forth some hypotheses regarding the origins of this rare find.
According to archaeologist Lorella Alderighi, the lead author of the study, this treasure may have belonged to a soldier returning from the civil war of 83-82 B.C. Perhaps he dreamed of using these savings to build his farm.
The denarii could also have belonged to a merchant who hid the treasure for better times: this is the theory of Federico Santandrello, a professor at Newcastle University (UK).
One thing is clear: the owner of the terracotta pot did not return to claim his money for some reason. Perhaps he died before he could realize his dreams.
As Lorella Alderighi promised, the treasure will soon be on display at the Museum of Natural History of the Mediterranean in Livorno (May 5 – July 2).