Metal detectorists Nick Yallope and Peter Nicolas discovered two rare Roman lead ingots, or 'pigs,' in the community of Llangynfelyn, West Wales. Dated precisely to 87 C.E. during the reign of Emperor Domitian, the artifacts were found buried approximately 1.5 feet underground. Following a geophysical survey by the archaeology trust Heneb, the finds were officially declared treasure under the U.K.’s Treasure Act, marking a significant addition to the region's archaeological record.
These artifacts provide crucial evidence of Ceredigion’s role as a vital resource hub for the Roman Empire’s infrastructure, specifically for plumbing and bathhouses. The discovery suggests that the area's rich mineral deposits were a primary motivation for the Roman conquest of West Wales. The Ceredigion Museum is currently working to acquire the ingots for permanent display in a new archaeology gallery slated to open in 2027.