Roman coins found at Lytham Hall

TWO tiny Roman coins unearthed by volunteers at Lytham Hall have opened a fascinating new chapter in the hall’s colourful history – and sparked a mystery.

For the two coins are believed to be the earliest archaeological finds made – not just at the hall but anywhere in the town.

The coins – known as radiates – were discovered by Hall gardening volunteers Julia Lipman and Peter Smith and are more than 1750 years old, according to Harris Museum, Preston.

They were issued for the Roman emperor Gallienus who reigned jointly with Valerian between 253-260 and then became sole ruler of the empire in 260-268.