Rare 17th-Century Coin Hoard Uncovered in Dorset Farmhouse Renovation

A rare discovery of 100 coins from the first English Civil War has come to light in Dorset. The find, now known as the Poorton Coin Hoard, was uncovered during renovations to a 17th-century long-house. The coins, hidden between 1642 and 1644, offer a glimpse into a turbulent period of British history.

The hoard was discovered when the owners of South Poorton Farm lowered the floor of their cottage. Buried beneath the old stonework lay a mix of gold and silver coins from the reigns of James I, Charles I, Elizabeth I, Phillip, and Mary. After the find, the coins were reported to the British Museum for cleaning and careful identification.

Dorset played a key role during the war, serving as a strategic location for troop movements. Wealthy families in the region often shifted their loyalties depending on which side held power. Historians suggest the hoard may have belonged to a family living in fear of soldiers arriving at any moment. Such finds from the First English Civil War (1642–1646) remain extremely rare in Dorset and its surrounding areas. The coins were later sold at auction for around $75,000. Their discovery adds a tangible piece to the historical record of a conflict that left remnants of chaos buried for over 400 years.

The Poorton Coin Hoard now provides physical evidence of the fear and uncertainty faced by families during the English Civil War. The sale of the coins for $75,000 highlights their historical and financial value. This find enriches the understanding of a period when Dorset's strategic importance shaped the lives of its residents.