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Two hoards, together one of the largest deposits of Roman coins ever recorded in Wales, were today (30 October 2008) declared treasure by H.M. Coroner for Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

The two deposits - found near Sully in April 2008 - comprise 2,366 and 3,547 copper-alloy coins. The coins buried in pottery vessels approximately three metres from each other were probably buried by the same person and hidden a couple of years apart nearly 1,700 years ago.

Amongst the find are coins of many emperors, notably Constantine I (the Great, A.D. 307-37), during whose reign Christianity was first recognised as a state religion.

Edward Besly, the Museum's Coin Specialist said: "This is an exceptional find. The coins provide further evidence for local wealth at the time. They also reflect the complex imperial politics of the early fourth century."

Also declared treasure by the coroner were two bronze axes from Llancarfan, Vale of Glamorgan. Discovered in June 2008, they were buried together as a small hoard. The two complete bronze socketed axes have ribbed decoration and are examples of the South Wales type, dating to the Late Bronze Age (1000-800 BC).

Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales intends to acquire the finds for study and future public display.

Admission to Amgueddfa Cymru sites is free thanks to the support of the Welsh Assembly Government. Amgueddfa Cymru operates seven national museums across Wales. These are National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans: National History Museum, National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon, Big Pit: National Coal Museum, Blaenafon, National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre, National Slate Museum, Llanberis and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

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For further information, photograph or interview opportunities, please contact Catrin Mears, Communications Officer, on 029 2057 3185/07920 027067 or email catrin.mears@museumwales.ac.uk.