A ROMAN coin dating from the 4th century has been discovered at arecently acquired RSPB reserve. This historic coin was found by a local archaeologist earlier this year, and has been identified as dating from c347-348AD, during the joint reign of Constantius II and his brother Constans.

A ROMAN coin dating from the 4th century has been discovered at arecently acquired RSPB reserve.

This historic coin was found by a local archaeologist earlier this year, and has been identified as dating from c347-348AD, during the joint reign of Constantius II and his brother Constans.

Constantius II and Constans had become joint emperors of Rome, with their brother Constantine II, following the death of their father in 337AD. Constans killed Constantine II in 340 during a battle for supremacy in Italy.

Constans later visited Britain early in 343, probably to repel the Scots or Picts. He died in 350. There is no evidence that Constantius II ever visited Britain before he eventually died in battle in 361.

The Abbey Farm nature reserve is at Snape and RSPB Suffolk Coast Area Manager, Rob Macklin said, “Abbey Farm is known to be a site of historical interest. As the name suggests, there was previously an abbey here, but this find shows that the Snape area has been occupied since at least Roman times. It's a really exciting find. It's amazing that the pattern was still identifiable to allow us to age this coin after nearly 1700 years!”

Rob continued: “RSPB Abbey Farm is an important new nature reserve on the Suffolk coast. We plan to create freshwater reedbeds here to ensure that suitable sites remain on the Suffolk coast for scarce species such as bitterns, otters and bearded tits. Many existing coastal reedbeds are increasingly vulnerable to saltwater flooding due to sea level rise, and Abbey Farm will provide a valuable alternative habitat. “

RSPB Abbey Farm currently has no visitor access, though the edge of the reserve can be seen from the Information Centre at Snape Maltings.