Ancient Treasure of 1,100 Silver Coins Discovered by Chance in a Cemetery

In an unexpected and remarkable discovery in Tarsus, Turkey, locals preparing a grave in a village cemetery unearthed an ancient ceramic jar containing over 1,100 silver coins.

The incident occurred in the Yunusoğlu district of Tarsus as residents were digging a grave for 26-year-old Nuri Kavas, who had tragically lost his life in a car accident. During the excavation, the shovel struck a broken ceramic vessel buried underground—revealing a significant hoard of silver coins hidden inside. The villagers immediately alerted the local gendarmerie, who secured the area and contacted the regional Directorate of Museums.

A Burial Interrupted by History

As the community mourned the tragic loss of a young man, their sorrowful task led to an extraordinary archaeological find. Beneath the soil lay a shattered jar filled with ancient silver coins, offering a glimpse into the distant past.

Under the supervision of museum officials and law enforcement, the cemetery was carefully combed, and 1,100 silver coins were recovered with precision to ensure their preservation. Once secured, the coins were transported to the local museum for conservation and further analysis.

Expert Statement on the Discovery

While digging a grave for 26-year-old Nuri Kavas, who tragically lost his life in a car accident, local residents discovered a broken ceramic vessel containing a collection of silver coins.
Photo: IHA

Izzet Gokler, head of the excavation efforts in Yunusoğlu, commented on the significance of the find:

“During the digging process, we uncovered a historical artifact—an extensive collection of coins. We immediately notified the authorities. Museum staff and security forces carried out a thorough investigation and ensured that all the coins were safely collected. In total, 1,100 coins were recovered.”

Following the successful removal of the treasure, the burial of Nuri Kavas proceeded as planned.

This extraordinary discovery, unearthed by pure chance, serves as a poignant reminder of how closely the past and present can intersect—even in moments of mourning.