A rare collection of 27 silver Roman coins, dating between 94 and 74 BC, was recently uncovered on the remote island of Pantelleria, located off the coast of Sicily. This significant archaeological find was announced by the Sicily region on Monday, marking an exciting addition to the island’s rich historical tapestry.
The coins were discovered during a cleaning and restoration project led by archaeologist Thomas Schaefer from the University of Tuebingen in Germany. The team was working in the Acropolis, which is part of the larger Archaeological Park of Selinunte, Cave di Cusa, and Pantelleria. This park is one of the most extensive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, encompassing the remnants of an ancient Greek colony established in the 7th century BC.
The recent coin discovery was made in the same area where 107 Roman silver coins were unearthed in 2010, and near the location where the famous imperial statue heads of Caesar, Agrippina, and Titus were found several years ago. The newly discovered coins are believed to have been minted in Rome during the Republican period, providing valuable insights into the era’s trade routes, political dynamics, and the events that shaped the Mediterranean region.
Francesco Paolo Scarpinato, a regional councillor for cultural heritage, emphasized the importance of this discovery, stating that it offers crucial information for reconstructing the historical events, trade contacts, and political relationships that influenced the Mediterranean during the Republican age.
The coins were found in two different contexts: some appeared in loose soil after recent heavy rains, while others were discovered beneath a rock during the excavation process. The coins have since been cleaned and cataloged, ensuring their preservation for future study.
Archaeologist Thomas Schaefer speculated that the treasure might have been hidden during a pirate attack and was never retrieved by its owner. This theory adds an intriguing narrative to the find, suggesting that the island of Pantelleria was not only a hub of ancient trade but also a site of conflict and turmoil.
The discovery of these Roman coins on Pantelleria contributes to the broader understanding of the island’s historical significance and its role in the Mediterranean during the Roman Republic. As archaeologists continue to explore the site, further revelations may emerge, offering even deeper insights into the ancient world.
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