A metal-detecting enthusiast from Killimister has come across a treasure trove of ancient coins in Caithness, Scotland.

The coins, dating from 1279, are due to go to auction where they are expected to be bought for a museum.

“I only took up metal detecting over a year ago, but have become very interested in it and have scanned several sites across Caithness,” Mikie Aitken said.

“I only found these coins by accident, as I wasn’t particularly looking for anything, it was a million-to-one chance that anybody could find something as valuable as these coins.

“When I returned home, I immediately discussed what I had found with members of a metal detecting forum whom I speak with on a regular basis.

“They thought that my discovery was unbelievable and ranked it as one of the most special find of coins to have been discovered in Caithness.”

In total, Mikie has found 27 coins at the site, in near perfect condition. They feature the heads of Edward I and Alexander III of Scotland.

The site is due to be investigated for possible further discoveries.

On Jan 31, a group of senators introduced a bill designed to save $50 billion per annum by using surplus coins instead of Presidential notes.

It is estimated that the Federal Reserve Bank is sitting on 1.4 billion $1 coins and that this would have grown 50% by 2016.

This is part of the Administrator’s Campaign to Cut Waste.