Rare Coin Unearthed, Only To Disappear Again
March 25, 2010 - While enjoying a summer holiday in Norfolk last year, Hal McGirt, from South Carolina, uncovered an exceptional fine, a Henry VII gold "angel" rare-coin dating from 1490.
As kids, when we hit the fields and beaches with our first metal detectors we dream of uncovering rare, lost treasure. For Hal McGirt the dream became reality. “I have been metal detecting regularly in the UK since 1994 with mixed results.” Says Hal. One morning in August, 200, Hal unearthed a rare coin dating back to 1490, true treasure.
"When I uncovered the Henry VII angel last year, it was the best object I had ever found.” Hal tells reporters.
But this is where the story losses its golden appeal. While awaiting an export license, he gave the coin to a friend for safe-keeping. As Hal continued to seek an export license thieves burglarized his friend’s home on 9 March. Along with a DVD player, lap top computer, and a small amount of cash, rare coin was taken.
“I am very disappointed that I will not get to see it” McGirt says, who is very desperate to get his found treasure back.
"There is only a long shot that the coin will be in the condition in which I found it. However, if it is, I am willing to pay £500 for its return.” Announced Hal this week.
A spokeswoman for Kent Police said they were investigating the theft of the items from the house and appealed for anyone with information to contact officers.
Shawn Penny
Senior Staff Writer - Rare-Coin.org
