Imagine finding a treasure hidden right under your feet! That’s exactly what happened to a couple in England during a kitchen renovation. While pulling up old floorboards in their 18th-century home in North Yorkshire, they discovered a stash of rare gold coins that had been hidden for centuries. This accidental find ended up being worth an incredible $852,380!
The Incredible Discovery
North Yorkshire Couple Finds $852380: In 2019, the couple stumbled upon what they initially thought was a piece of electrical wiring. Upon closer inspection, they realized they were holding a gold coin. And there wasn’t just one — there were hundreds of gold coins buried under their kitchen floor!
Gregory Edmund, a British coin specialist and auctioneer at Spink and Son, shared the story with excitement. He mentioned that the couple wasn’t expecting to find anything so valuable. “Why they decided to touch it who knows, but when they did, they realised it was a gold disc and there were hundreds more beneath!” Edmund said in an interview.
A Treasure from the Past
The coins date back to between 1610 and 1727, during the reigns of King James I to King George I. These were not just random coins but had historical significance, linked to a wealthy merchant family from Hull called the Maisters. Sarah Maister, who married Joseph Fernley, is believed to be associated with the collection. Fernley passed away in 1725, and Sarah continued living in the area until her death in 1745. The coins lay undisturbed for over two centuries until the recent renovation unearthed them.
Auction and Sale of the Coins
Once the couple realized the value of their discovery, they decided to auction the coins. The auction was a massive success, with 372 global bidders and many of the coins breaking world records. The total sale far exceeded expectations, bringing in $852,380, much higher than the pre-sale estimate of $231,390.
The auction featured several standout lots, with some of the rare coins fetching extraordinary prices:
| Lot Number | Coin Description | Sold For | Pre-Sale Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot 5 | James VI and I Six Pounds Gold Coin | $6,100 | $1,100 |
| Lot 101 | Charles II Guinea, with a spelling error (CRAOLVS instead of CAROLUS) | $10,850 | $1,100 |
| Lot 164 | Queen Anne Guinea, 1705, minted before the Union of England and Scotland | $14,920 | $3,400 |
| Lot 241 | George I ‘Brockage’ Guinea, a mint error with no head and two tails | $72,860 | $4,500 |
The most valuable item was Lot 241, a mint error coin with two tails and no head, which sold for a record-breaking $72,860. This set a new world record for any ‘brockage’ mint error coin ever sold at auction, surpassing the previous record of $54,625 for a US gold dollar sold in Texas in 2011.
A Rare Opportunity
Edmund expressed his excitement over the entire process. He called it a “rare privilege” to handle such a unique auction. “The story of Joseph and Sarah Fernley and their misers millions came to my attention back in 2019, I just knew the story had to be told,” he said. The couple who discovered the coins was absolutely stunned by the results. The auction surpassed any pre-conceived expectations, setting dozens of world records along the way.
What Happens Next?
While this story might make people want to tear up their floors looking for hidden treasure, Edmund advised caution. “I do hope people think before ripping up their floors,” he said with a smile.
Although finding such a treasure is incredibly rare, it serves as a reminder that history often lies hidden in the most unexpected places.
Conclusion
North Yorkshire Couple Finds $852380: This incredible story of a couple finding a treasure hidden under their kitchen floor serves as a reminder that history is often closer than we think. From an ordinary home renovation project to an extraordinary auction, the couple’s discovery has not only enriched them financially but also contributed to the historical record. Although it’s unlikely for most of us to stumble upon such treasures, the story adds a touch of excitement to the everyday, reminding us that surprises are always possible.
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FAQs
How much were the coins worth in total?
The rare coins were sold at auction for $852,380, far exceeding the original estimate of $231,390.
How old were the coins?
The coins dated from 1610 to 1727, covering the reigns of King James I to King George I.
Who originally owned the coins?
The coins are believed to have been owned by the Maister family, a wealthy merchant family from Hull.
What was the most valuable coin sold?
The most valuable coin was a George I ‘Brockage’ Guinea, a mint error coin that sold for $72,860.
Can I find treasure like this under my house?
While it’s possible, discoveries like this are incredibly rare. It’s always good to check with professionals before tearing up your floors!