Medieval coins unearthed in Germany's Glottertal: A 1,500-coin treasure trove
An impressive discovery was made in Glottertal, Germany, where over 1,500 medieval coins were unearthed. Archaeologists consider this one of the largest such finds in recent decades.
At the beginning of May 2024, workers involved in the reconstruction of the local swimming pool noticed "small metal plates" in the ground. They looked intriguing enough that it was decided to inform the State Office for the Preservation of Monuments (LAD), whose recommendation brought archaeologists to the site of the works. Their efforts were quickly rewarded.
Medieval treasure discovered in Glottertal
On the first day of the inspections, about 1,000 coins were excavated. Despite unfavourable conditions (frequent rain showers and "knee-deep mud"), more coins were found in the following weeks, totalling over 1,500.
"These are mainly coins from the mints of Breisach, Zofingen and Freiburg, struck around 1320. There are also individual coins from Basel, St. Gallen, Zurich, Laufenburg and Colmar," explains archaeologist Andreas Haasis-Berner from LAD.
The find will provide researchers with many answers
When asked about the find's actual value in medieval times, German archaeologists suggest it provided significant purchasing power, "allowing for the purchase of about 150 sheep."
The large variety of coins may indicate extensive trade networks and a high currency circulation in the region at the beginning of the 14th century. Archaeologists remind us that Glottertal was once a settlement for miners working in local silver mines.
"Evaluating this collection of coins will allow for a more detailed statement on the circulation of coins in present-day south-western Germany, minting activities, trade, but also on mining in Glottertal," adds Andreas Haasis-Berner.
