Diver Discovers Over 30,000 Ancient Coins off Sardinia Coast, Possible Evidence of Fourth Century Shipwreck

Recovered bronze coins dated between 324 and 340 CE in exceptional state of preservation; possibly up to 50,000 coins in the collection, making it one of the most significant numismatic finds in recent years.

• A diver discovered more than 30,000 large bronze coins dating back to the fourth century AD off the coast of Sardinia, Italy, which could indicate the presence of a shipwreck.
• The coins, which were found in a rare state of preservation, date from 324 to 340 CE and were produced by mints across the Roman empire.
• Based on their weight, there could be up to 50,000 coins in this find, making it potentially larger than the 2013 Seaton hoard found in the United Kingdom containing 22,888 coins.
• The location of the coins, between the beach and a seagrass area, could theoretically preserve a shipwreck. Walls of African- and eastern-produced amphorae were also found nearby.
• A range of authorities, including art, firefighter and police divers, as well as Italy's Ministry of Culture, have cooperated in retrieving the coins.

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