Divers find ‘priceless’ stash of ancient gold coins off Israeli coast

The coast of Caesarea and the Mediterranean Sea. Image by James Emery / CC BY 2.0

A treasure trove of almost 2,000 golden coins, the largest collection ever found, has been discovered off Israel’s Mediterranean coast. The coins, which weigh nine kg in total, are over 1000 years old and have been described as priceless. Members of a diving club at first thought the coins were toys, but brought a few back to shore when they realised they were real. It is thought the trove may be part of an ancient shipwreck, uncovered from winter storms, and excavations will be taking place at the site of the discovery. Read more: theguardian.com