Another Large Gold Cache Found

October 9, 2012

The 13th-century Crusader fortress in which they were found stands on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, where the Crusader town of Apollonia–Arsuf once thrived. Though it was first excavated over 30 years ago, several new finds have been uncovered in the past three years since efforts to fortify the sea wall began.

In a Ha’aretz article, Professor Oren Tal of Tel Aviv University, head of the dig, said, “I think the stash was deliberately buried in a partly broken vessel, which was then filled with sand and laid under the floor tiles. So if anyone found it, he would think it’s a broken pot and pay no attention to it.” The coins, weighing approximately 400 grams (14 ounces), are valued at more than US $100,000. They were not new but minted in Egypt approximately 250 years prior to their burial. 

The finds showed evidence of the fierce battle that took place when the Mameluks overtook the Crusaders in 1265. Hundreds of arrowheads and other weaponry, such as stones used in catapults, were found as well as rare glass utensils, a Roman villa, an Early Islamic Period market street, and a massive gate complex.

Source: By Charleeda Sprinkle, Assistant Editor

Photo Credit: Israel Ministry of Tourism