The Carrot Patch Hoard: A Detectorist’s Dream Comes True

In a fortunate turn of events, a routine carrot harvest in Fife, Scotland, led to the remarkable discovery of a hoard of ancient coins dating back 500 years. Alan Baxter, a 44-year-old detectorist from Falkirk, uncovered this treasure, comprising farthings from the reign of the 15th-century Scottish King James III, amidst the furrows of a farmer’s field. This find was the latest in a long line of important finds for Baxter, who has written a book on the secrets of his success. This discovery not only highlights the historical wealth lying beneath our feet but also emphasizes the serendipitous nature of such finds, often dependent on agricultural practices and sheer persistence.

Alan Baxter detecting on a field of stubble. (Alan Baxter)

A Wait Rewarded by Historical Riches

Baxter’s initial encounter with the field’s potential came four years earlier with the discovery of a medieval ring. However, the dense oat crop stubble made further exploration challenging. It was only after the land was ploughed for a carrot harvest that Baxter could explore the soil closely, leading to an almost immediate and overwhelming find.

“Every 3ft I was getting a signal. I couldn’t move, there was stuff everywhere,” Baxter recalls his excitement upon realizing the bounty beneath the surface. His persistence was rewarded with the unearthing of 52 James III farthings, a find unprecedented since 1919 according to experts at the National Museum of Scotland.

Some of the hoard of James III farthings, who reigned as Scotland’s king from 1460 to 1488. (Alan Baxter)

The Significance of the Hoard

The coins, made of copper and worth a quarter of a penny each, were in exceptionally good condition and bore the Saltire and a crown, emblematic of the era’s craftsmanship and symbolism. This hoard not only sheds light on the circulation and use of currency during James III’s reign but also adds a valuable chapter to Scotland’s numismatic history. The excitement of holding something centuries old, as Baxter describes, connects us to our past, bringing history to life in a tangible form.

Legalities and Ethical Considerations in Metal Detecting

In Scotland, all finds of archaeological significance must be reported and can be claimed by the Crown, with the Treasure Trove system ensuring that discoveries are recorded, analyzed, and, if relevant, displayed in museums. This process acknowledges the detectorist’s efforts while preserving the find’s historical value for public benefit. Baxter’s methodical approach to seeking permission for his pursuits underscores the balance between individual passion for history and the broader ethical considerations of heritage conservation.

Beyond the Hoard: A Glimpse into Scotland’s Past

Alan Baxter has been behind some of the most significant historical discoveries in Scotland ever to have been made by a metal detectorist. In his brand-new book, he details the fundamental rules of his craft and explains how to get involved in this fascinating activity, before taking a look at some of the amazing rarities from centuries past that he has uncovered.

Baxter also found a first issue farthing of John Balliol, who reigned from 1292-1296, and many belt mounts. (Alan Baxter)

Baxter’s finds span beyond the James III farthings, including rare coins from the reigns of John Balliol and Edward I, medieval belt mounts, and a betrothal ring, painting a rich picture of medieval Scotland. These discoveries, each with its own story, offer invaluable insights into the daily lives, economic transactions, and social hierarchies of the past.

They remind us of the layers of history that lie just beneath our feet, waiting to be uncovered by those patient and fortunate enough to find them.

Making History: My Life as a Scottish Metal Detectorist by Alan Baxter is available to pre-order now for its release on April 19 ^th.

Top image:  Alan Baxter with his detecting equipment. Source: Alan Baxter

By Gary Manners