A RARE Roman coin found near Dorking is believed to be the first found nationwide in a British Museum project.
Its discovery, to the west of the town, earlier in September was reported to David Williams, Surrey finds liaison officer for the British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme.................
The rare Roman coins found close to Dorking
Rare Roman coin found near Dorking
By Guy Martin
September 29, 2011
A RARE Roman coin found near Dorking is believed to be the first found nationwide in a British Museum project.
Its discovery, to the west of the town, earlier in September was reported to David Williams, Surrey finds liaison officer for the British Museum’s Portable Antiquities Scheme.
He said that although he had many Roman coins handed to him, this one, dating from the reign of Emperor Philippus, was unusual.
The coin was found by a member of a metal detecting club and shows the head of the ruler, known as Philip the Arab. On the reverse it depicts him on horseback.
“That particular reverse is not one we have recorded nationwide,” Mr Williams said. “The coins of Philip I are relatively rare.”
More such finds may be out there for detectors in the area.
Mr Williams added: “We have had quite a number from the fields around Dorking and we encourage people to record their finds with us.
“Dorking is a known Roman settlement and coins do turn up in the fields around the town. Most are fairly common ones, this is rarer.”
When items are shown to the scheme, they are recorded, identified and then returned to the finder unless they fall under the Treasure Act, in which case they must be handed in.
Single coins cannot be classed as treasure so there is no such fear with this one, found between Dorking and Westcott by a member of the Weald and Downland Metal Detecting Club in Reigate.
Mr Williams added: “Most things we see are metal detectors’ finds. There are a number of clubs and individuals.
"I only know of one or two regular detectors in the Dorking area, probably because you need the permission of landowners.”
The regular discovery of Roman pottery and other artefacts has led to the belief there was a settlement on Stane Street, the main highway between London and Chichester.
There have also been suggestions a Roman marching camp was based in the Westcott area, where this coin was found.
