17th-century coin hoard unearthed in Altstadt Wettin farmhouse
Archeologists discovered a treasure trove from the past when they unearthed a 17th-century coin hoard in Altstadt Wettin Farmhouse, located in the heart of Wettin.
Protected diligently by Altstadt Wettin since 2018, this quaint abode has revealed a hidden secret, shedding light on centuries past.
According to reports from Heritage Daily, the farmhouse, once inhabited by a bourgeois family, boasts a lineage that stretches back to the 16th and 17th centuries
Documented accounts trace its existence through the tumultuous era of the 30 Years’ War, highlighting its enduring significance in Wettin’s storied history.
Notably, the building served a dual purpose, functioning as the town’s pharmacy from the year 1681 onward, further solidifying its integral role within the community.
Construction work on the farmhouse reveals a 17th-century coin hoard in the doorway leading to the central courtyard.
400-year-old money vault
Archaeologists made a remarkable discovery amid layers of compacted soil within the Wettin farmhouse, unearthing a total of 285 coins. Subsequently, these coins were entrusted to the restoration workshop of the LDA Saxony-Anhalt for meticulous preservation and analysis.
Of notable interest is the diverse composition of the coin hoard, with estimates suggesting that a significant portion, originating from the late 1650s, belonged to both the Roman Empire and the German Confederation.
Additionally, the treasure trove encompasses coins referred to as “groschen”, alongside specific denominations such as Schreckenberg groschen and Albertus thalers, hailing from the Spanish Netherlands.
Furthermore, the collection boasts coins minted by various entities including German emperors, the Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg, Archduke Albert VII of Austria, and King Philip IV of Spain.
Archaeologists illuminated the significance of these numismatic artifacts and emphasized their invaluable contribution to unraveling the historical narrative of Saxony-Anhalt.
This collaboration underscores the synergy between archaeological endeavors and the custodianship of cultural heritage, illustrating a harmonious convergence that aims to enrich our understanding of the region’s past.
