Two adventurous hikers recently made an astonishing discovery of gold coins and a trove of treasures in the Krkonoše Mountains of northeastern Czech Republic.
As they trekked along a winding trail, their eyes were drawn to an unusual sight: an aluminum box protruding from a weathered stone wall. Intrigued, they carefully pried it open, revealing a trove of treasure that seemed plucked from a tale of legends.
Inside lay a dazzling assortment: ten intricately crafted bracelets, 16 finely adorned cigar cases, a delicate powder compact, an ornate comb, a mysterious chain with a key, and, most astonishingly, 598 shimmering gold coins. The weight of history and wealth in their hands was palpable, totaling an impressive 15 pounds of antiquity.
The anonymous duo, moved by both excitement and a sense of responsibility, swiftly turned over their find to the Museum of Eastern Bohemia. As experts began their meticulous appraisal, they were left awestruck by the magnitude and mystery of the discovery. The sheer metal value of the coins alone was estimated at around $360,000, highlighting the immense historical and monetary significance.
Yet, despite careful examination, the origins of this treasure remain shrouded in uncertainty. Experts puzzled over the absence of local coins among the hoard, sparking wild speculations and local lore linking it to affluent families of the region. A lone coin from 1921 provided a crucial clue, yet the full story eluded even the most seasoned historians.
As two cigar cases remained unopened, anticipation grew about what further revelations they might hold. Once fully analyzed, the treasure will find its place among the museum’s prized collections, preserving its allure for generations to come.
In recognition of their remarkable find, the hikers will be duly rewarded based on the treasure’s total appraisal, a fitting tribute to their accidental journey into history.
In the summer of 2023, an amateur metal detectorist in Norway discovered what archaeologists have hailed as Norway’s “gold find of the century”.
He dug up nine engraved gold pendants, ten gold pearls, and three gold rings—all dating to the sixth century AD on the island of Rennesøy.
Erlend Bore initially thought he’d unearthed some old chocolate coins; in reality, he’d struck gold. Officials say the discovery is the first of its kind in the country since the 1800s.
“This is the gold find of the century in Norway,” says Ole Madsen, director of the Museum of Archaeology at the University of Stavanger, in a statement. “To find so much gold at the same time is extremely unusual.”
