In a remarkable discovery during a routine house clearance in Leicestershire, Hansons Auctioneers unearthed a hidden cache of 331 gold coins meticulously concealed among sheets, pillowcases, and even an old sock within a linen chest. The incredible find, spanning three centuries and featuring monarchs from Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth II, was valued at £118,000 during the auction held at Hanson Ross on Wednesday, January 17.
The coins, each individually appraised at a substantial £300 to £500, captivated buyers, resulting in a total sum well exceeding the initial valuation. The final hammer price, inclusive of buyer’s premium, amounted to £90,768.
Hansons owner, Charles Hanson, expressed astonishment at the discovery, recounting the client’s initial instruction to clear the house and the subsequent revelation of the hidden treasure. The gold coins emerged in a cascade of glinting brilliance, with some concealed within pillowcases and others tucked away within an unsuspecting sock. The thoroughness of Hansons’ team, renowned for their meticulous approach, played a pivotal role in uncovering not just the prominently displayed items but also the concealed treasures that often prove to be the most valuable. The unexpected windfall showcased the potential for hidden treasures lurking in seemingly ordinary spaces, leaving both the auctioneers and the client equally flabbergasted and delighted by the unexpected riches within the unassuming Leicestershire residence.