Medieval coins head for auction as Pinchbeck dig is wound up

A collection of medieval silver coins, discovered during an archaeological dig at Pinchbeck, is to be auctioned with the proceeds donated to village charities.

The 65 coins – checked for authenticity by the British Museum – date from the 12th to 18th centuries.

Pinchbeck History and Archaeology Group press officer Ray Tucker said: “After a period of five years investigating the medieval history of Pinchbeck and with no visible interest in continuing the project evident, it has been decided by the few remaining members of the group to close the search.
“The historical search has covered an area bordering on Northgate including Langhole Drove, Flaxmill and Healey’s field where significant finds were unearthed, proving that the area was thriving in early times and was probably the site of the market status awarded to the village in the 13th century.”

It was verified that considerable amounts of dressed stone would have been transported from the old Spalding Priory. Also discovered were bakery kilns and a blacksmith’s forge complete with tools. Other items found were rumbler bells, a knight’s spur, jettons, glassware and varied pottery, dated from around 1064, and much more.

Mr Tucker said: “Unless a home (museum, place of worship, public meeting place) can be found to display these items – museum standard display cases are available – they will be disposed of at the end of this month.”

John Lyon, who formed PHAG, says details on the group’s findings will be made available to any students of archaeology wishing to take up the project – information that should attract Lottery funding for future digs.
Mr Lyon said: “We know that from latest surveys that the area has so much more archaeology to be discovered.”
He can be contacted via MJL Skipmaster, of Pode Hole.