29.4.1811 Roman treasure from Backworth

In 1811, a Roman treasure was found near Hadrian's Wall. He read several gold and silver artifacts such as jewelry or a pan. But in addition, 280 coins that had mysteriously disappeared.

According to experts, the treasure was buried by a very rich man. He wanted to thank the gods for bringing him luck in his life. It is believed that the treasure was found in 1811 in the village of Backworth, located in the English county of Tyne and Wear.

In 2013, the treasure was brought back "home". For four months, it was on display in a building at the Roman fortress of Segedunum, where the most extensive excavation took place compared to the other forts of Hadrian's Wall.

The treasure included gilded silver brooches, a silver basin, necklaces, rings and several hundred coins. One ring is engraved "Matres" (to mothers). It was probably made specifically as a votive object. The jewellery can be compared to rings and necklaces dating from Roman Britain.

The history of the treasure is unclear. It is known to have been found around 1811. The hoard is said to have contained about 280 coins, but these were lost before the depot was acquired by the British Museum in 1850. Apparently other items were also lost.

"We are very appreciative that the treasure has been returned to the area where it was found. We can show it to locals and other visitors. It's an exciting feeling," said Geoff Woodward of the Tyne and Wear Museum.

He said the individual objects demonstrate the wealth and power of an individual living at the eastern end of Hadrian's Wall. "We believe it was an offering to the gods for something great and significant that happened in the life of the owner of the treasure. He may have been giving thanks for a good harvest, but we can really only speculate on that," Woodward added.

He was sorry to hear that 280 coins that were part of the hoard were lost. "We would like to track down where the coins have gone," Woodward added.

Hadrian's Wall was built in 122 AD on the orders of the Roman Emperor Hadrian and links Wallsend near Newcastle and Bowness-on-Solway on the west coast...

Sources: www.bbc.com