A tiny coin of ‘major historical importance’ – dating back to William the Conqueror – has been obtained by the City Council’s Museum.

The silver penny was struck in Gloucester in 1080 – and 900 years later  was found in Highnam  by Maureen Jones,  a member of Taynton metal detecting club.

William had strong connections with Gloucester holding his Christmas Court here every year. The discovery plugs an historical gap and proves that the Gloucester Mint was kept operational through his reign.

The coin, which would have been quite valuable in its time, is the first of its kind to be found and provides proof of the operation of the Mint. It will now go on show as part of the exhibits at the City Museum and Art Gallery in Brunswick Road.

Council Leader, Paul James, commented: “ We are a City with 2,000 years of history. This is a significant find of major historical importance and plugs an historical gap in local knowledge. It proves that coins were being minted locally throughout the reign of William something that we haven’t been able to do until now.

“ I am delighted that this coin is joining our collection and will be on show for local people as well as our many visitors to see and enjoy.”