A MUSEUM in Malmesbury has been granted £47,100 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to help with the conservation and display of the Malmesbury Coin Hoard.

The Athelstan Museum acquired the hoard, which consists of 1266 early fourth century Roman copper alloy coins, in March 2012 through generous donations and grants after a metal detectorist discovered the coins in 2012.

Led by volunteers, the Malmesbury Coin Hoard Project will provide learning opportunities for volunteers from the community, giving them a chance to help record the coins, to take part in training and workshops and to acquire new skills while working closely with a part of history.

Maria Marsh, curator, said “We are delighted by the Heritage Lottery Fund grant for the Malmesbury Coin Hoard project. Their support will allow us to make this amazing treasure available for everyone to see and enjoy. This is a terrific opportunity for the museum to attract and share Malmesbury's history with even more volunteers and visitors.

"The whole project will cost about £60,000 with half of that money going towards the upkeep and the display and the other half going towards the training, events and the legacy."

The project will also hold a series of talks, exhibitions and open days related to the coin hoard and Roman history which will drive visitors to learn more and appreciate this discovery in the context of its historical significance.

Nerys Watts, Head of HLF South West, said: “The Malmesbury hoard is one of the largest and most significant finds ever discovered in this area. It’s been great to see the local enthusiasm and support for raising the money to buy it and we’re delighted that now, thanks to National Lottery players, it will go on display for many more people to see."

The Museum is encouraging volunteers who are intrigued by the period or working with the coins to come forward and register their interest with the curator.