Beau Street Hoard

The Beau Street Hoard represents a remarkable archaeological discovery in Bath, Somerset, UK. It is notable for being the fifth-largest hoard ever found in Britain and the largest unearthed in a British Roman town. This extraordinary collection comprises approximately 17,500 silver Roman coins, dating from 32 BC to 274 AD.

The hoard was uncovered in 2008 during construction work for a new pool at the Gainsborough Hotel and Thermal Spa. It was hidden beneath the floor of an ancient Roman building near the renowned Roman Baths.

Upon discovery, the coins were fused together in a large block, originally stored in what were once leather bags, as confirmed through X-ray analysis. The collection features denarii from 32 BC to the 240s AD, high-silver radiates from the 3rd century, and more debased radiates from later in the same century. The period of burial corresponds with the Crisis of the Third Century, a turbulent era in the Roman Empire.

It is believed that the hoard was buried with the intention of being retrieved at a later date; however, circumstances prevented the owners from reclaiming it. The British Museum undertook the conservation of the hoard, which was officially declared a treasure trove. Valued at around £150,000, the Roman Baths Museum, with assistance from the Heritage Lottery Fund, acquired the hoard. Since January 2015, it has been on display at the Roman Baths, allowing the public an opportunity to witness this fascinating piece of history.