Treasure hunter unearths stash of Medieval coins

A treasure hunter has unearthed a stash of ancient coins which could be worth thousands of pounds. Mike Aitken found the perfectly preserved 13th century coins with his metal detector. 

Treasure Trove: Mike Aitken discovers 27 ancient coins [Credit: © STV]

The 27-year-old, from Killimster in Caithness, discovered the treasure trove only a year after he took up metal detecting as a hobby. 

The collection of 27 coins could fetch thousands at auction, but Mr Aitken says he is more likely to loan them to a local museum. 

Five of the coins date back to 1279 and feature the head of King Edward I, the so-called Hammer of the Scots. 

Others display the head of King Alexander III, who ruled Scotland between 1249 and 1286. 

He is keeping the location of his find a closely guarded secret. 

Source: STV [February 06, 2012]