An ancient shipwreck uncovered in the Rhône River in France has yielded 847 Roman coins, a discovery researchers are calling one of the most remarkable in recent decades.
The find was made near the Trinquetaille district of Arles during an excavation led by the Musée Départemental de l’Arles Antique in partnership with CNRS, Inrap, Drassm, the Musée National de la Marine, and the private firm Ipso Facto.
About 15 specialists, including archaeologists, ceramologists, restorers, surveyors, and photographers, took part in the mission. The team was led by underwater archaeologist David Djaoui, who has directed previous excavations in the Rhône.
Work continued under difficult conditions
The work took place in strong currents and near-zero visibility. Despite those challenges, divers identified the remains of a ship measuring about 20 meters (65 feet) long. Directly above the hull, they located a numismatic treasure.
The coins were recovered in stages. In mid-September, divers first brought up 60 pieces. Days later, they found another 80. The breakthrough came when they uncovered a compact cluster of more than 600 coins. In total, 847 coins were retrieved.
Coins date to the Roman Empire
Most of the collection dates to the third century AD. Among the pieces is a rare sestertius of Emperor Trajan, minted in 116 AD. Many coins remain in strikingly good condition due to anaerobic river sediments that protected them from corrosion for nearly 2,000 years.
Researchers suggest accidental loss
Researchers believe the coins were accidentally lost from a boat, possibly during a wreck or mishap on the river. No container has been found.
Djaoui explained that they would love to find the vessel of these coins, probably a treasure chest like the ones in films. He acknowledged the chances are slim but added that the Rhône continues to reveal extraordinary finds.
Coins to undergo study and display
All of the coins will undergo detailed analysis by a numismatist, who will establish their chronology, imperial portraits, mints of origin, and values. After restoration, they are expected to go on public display at the Musée Départemental de l’Arles Antique within one to two years.
The Rhône has already produced major archaeological discoveries. In 2004, excavations uncovered a Roman barge. Three years later, a bust of Caesar was recovered, followed by another group of coins in 2018.
River seen as key to ancient Arelate
Researchers say the river was central to ancient Arelate, a Roman colony that served as both a commercial hub and a military supply center. They believe many more artifacts remain hidden beneath its waters. Djaoui said that the Rhône in Arles will continue to yield discoveries for centuries, even millennia.
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