A retired builder named Paul Capewell recently made an exciting discovery that could change his life. After spending over 20 years searching a field in Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire, he found a rare Roman coin that might be worth up to £6,000 at auction. Let’s dive into the details of this amazing find and what it means for Mr. Capewell.
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Finder | Paul Capewell |
| Age | 59 years old |
| Location of Find | Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire |
| Type of Coin | Silver Roman coin issued by Emperor Trajan |
| Year of Issue | AD 107 |
| Auction Date | October 22, 2024 |
| Estimated Value | £5,000 to £6,000 |
| Metal Detector Used | Equinox 800 |
| Time Spent Metal Detecting | Over 20 years |
| Coin Historical Significance | Limited number issued by Trajan, only two recorded sales in 25 years |
| Plans for Proceeds | Split with landowner; potential purchase of new metal detector or medical expenses |
The Discovery of a Lifetime
Paul Capewell, who is 59 years old and lives in Selston, Nottinghamshire, has been metal detecting since he was a child. He started this hobby with his father more than 40 years ago. For two decades, he has returned to the same field, hoping to find something valuable. In November 2022, his patience paid off when he unearthed a silver coin that was issued by Emperor Trajan in AD 107.
“I have been visiting the same field for more than 20 years and have discovered a few Roman and Medieval coins, but this is my most exciting find so far,” Mr. Capewell shared. The discovery has become a highlight of his metal detecting adventures.
The Coin’s Historical Significance
The coin that Mr. Capewell found is not just any old piece of metal. It was created by Emperor Trajan, who was known for recalling worn-out coins from circulation. This particular coin is special because it has only been recorded in sales twice in the last 25 years. Nigel Mills, a coins and artifacts specialist at Noonans, explained that coins like this offer a glimpse into the history of the Roman Empire.
Trajan’s coins were designed to remember important events and achievements from the past. The design of this coin also shares similarities with a coin issued by Titus Carisius in 46 BC, who was an ally of Julius Caesar. The imagery on the coin is rich with historical meaning, showcasing how coins were made during that time.
The Auction and Its Anticipated Value
The coin is set to be sold at auction on October 22, at Noonans Mayfair in London. The pre-sale estimate for the coin ranges from £5,000 to £6,000. Mr. Capewell is excited about the auction and the possibility of making a profit from his find. He plans to share the proceeds with the landowner and use his share either to buy a new metal detector or to help pay for heart surgery.
A Passion for Metal Detecting
Mr. Capewell’s passion for metal detecting has been a source of joy in his life, especially after suffering a heart attack and facing surgery. He recalls the moment he found the coin, stating, “Using my Equinox 800 metal detector, I only found a few shotgun cartridges, so I decided to return to my car parked at the side of the field. Just five meters away from the car, I got a signal and at a depth of eight inches, I found a silver Roman coin.” This moment was not only thrilling for Mr. Capewell but also a testament to his dedication as a detectorist.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the story of Paul Capewell and his rare Roman coin illustrates the excitement and potential rewards of metal detecting. After 20 years of searching, he has uncovered a piece of history that could be worth thousands. This discovery not only showcases the joy of treasure hunting but also highlights the importance of patience and persistence in pursuing hobbies. As Mr. Capewell prepares for the auction, he reminds us all of the possibilities that lie hidden beneath our feet. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just curious, metal detecting can lead to remarkable finds that connect us to the past. Who knows? You might have a treasure waiting to be discovered in your own backyard!
FAQs
1. What type of coin did Paul Capewell find?
Paul Capewell found a silver Roman coin issued by Emperor Trajan in AD 107.
2. How much is the coin expected to sell for at auction?
The coin is expected to sell for between £5,000 and £6,000 at auction.
3. Where was the coin discovered?
The coin was discovered in a field located in Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire.
4. How long did Paul Capewell spend searching for coins before finding this one?
Paul Capewell spent over 20 years searching the same field with his metal detector.
5. What will Paul Capewell do with the proceeds from the sale of the coin?
He plans to split the proceeds with the landowner and may use his share to buy a new metal detector or to help pay for his heart surgery.