BRITAIN’S largest Roman coin collection unearthed near Frome in April 2010, known as the Frome Hoard, is potentially set to return to the town for six months in 2024. The exhibition would be part of a wider engagement project, along with Bath, for the town to become a ‘must-see’ tourist destination for those interested in Roman artefacts.
The Frome Hoard, comprises 52,503 coins from AD 235 to AD 305 and is the largest find of Roman coins in Britain. It was discovered by metal detectorist, Dave Crisp, whilst he was out on a regular metal detecting trip in a small village near Frome.
After its discovery, some of the coins were on display in the Frome Library where 2,000 people came through the doors to see the artefacts in two hours. The year following its discovery, in 2011, the Museum of Somerset raised a total of £320,250 to acquire the hoard. It was declared treasure and has since remained in the Museum of Somerset in Taunton. Talks have been under way this year for the ‘nation’s favourite treasure’ to potentially be loaned to Frome Museum, for a six-month period in 2024.
Frome museum’s exhibition officer, David Lassman said, “It must be stressed that we are in the very early stages of discussions with South West Heritage and other key stakeholders about the Frome Hoard returning to the town for six months. There’s a lot work that needs to be done in the museum to ensure the area is secure and suitable for the Hoard to be placed in 2024.”
At last week’s town council meeting, David put forward the idea to the council to get the support of councillors for the Hoard’s return. David said, “They all voted in support which is good! We are now in the very early stages of planning and hope that there could perhaps be a wider engagement programme, but this is all to be confirmed.”
“This is all very exciting and we hope the museum can do the work required. For more information about the Frome Hoard, contact the Frome Museum, https://frome-heritage-museum.org/
