Last Chance for Funding to Study Jersey Coin Hoard

The final round of funding to study Jersey’s remarkable hoard of 60,000 Celtic coins will close at the end of August.

The hoard—believed to be the largest known Iron Age coin collection in Western Europe—was discovered in 2012 by two metal detectorists and purchased by the Jersey government in 2021 for £4.25 million.

Since applications opened in 2023, researchers, schools, community groups, and organisations have been able to apply for grants from the Le Catillon II Coin Hoard Fund. With the deadline set for 29 August, £82,000 in funding still remains.

The treasure, dating from around 30–50 BC, also includes gold and silver jewellery. The government used money recovered from criminal activities to secure the hoard, now housed under the care of Jersey Heritage.

Previous funding has supported educational courses, a detailed account of the discovery in Wreckwatch magazine, and a geophysical survey of the find site by the Société Jersiaise.

Field archaeologist Dr Hervé Duval-Gatignol said the ongoing research could shed light on the environment in which the Celts buried the hoard. “Early results already suggest signs of human activity,” he noted. “Thanks to the Le Catillon II Coin Hoard Fund, a whole chapter of the island’s history is being brought to light.”

The Highlands College Foundation manages the fund, and its chairman, David Lord, urged potential applicants to come forward. “If you have a compelling project, this is your chance,” he said.