Gobowen Hoard: Museum launches crowdfunding appeal to keep Roman coins in Shrosphire

The Gobowen Hoard, consisting of 337 silver Roman coins, was unearthed by metal detectorist Darren Booth in a ploughed field in the north of the county in September 2019.

A treasure inquest held in Shrewsbury officially declared the find treasure.

Now the museum and art gallery is hoping to raise thousands of pounds to retain the hoard, which was discovered close to Watling Street, now the A4; the major Roman Road that connected London to Chester.

A museum spokesperson said: "Just 20 years after the Romans conquered most of Britain, their control was in doubt. Fierce resistance in the west and north and Queen Boudia’s revolt had shaken the Empire’s confidence.

"The future of Roman Britain seemed uncertain. The Gobowen Hoard was found close to Watling Street. This suggests that people were burying their valuables as they moved along major routeways, each hoping for better times to return and retrieve their wealth.

"One such hoard lay forgotten for almost 2,000 years until it was found by a group of metal detectorists in North Shropshire. By helping Shropshire Museums purchase this remarkable find you are working alongside metal detectorists, archaeologists and historians to uncover an important moment in our shared history.

"Finds like this help explain this region's military and strategic importance."

A crowdfunding appeal is hoping to raise £6,200.

While people can donate whatever they wish, they can adopt a coin for £100.

"You will receive a replica coin and a commemorative postcard thanking you for your support. We'll also thank you on our website and Facebook page," said the spokesperson.

Anyone who donates £250 will receive an exclusive replica of the Shropshire Sun Pendant.

"Created by own own museum curator, Emma-Kate Lanyon, it is 24ct gold vermeil and a beautiful symbol of Shropshire's bronze age treasures."