Researchers from the University of Haifa uncovered a rare Byzantine hoard at the ancient city of Hippos near the Sea of Galilee, including nearly 100 gold coins and dozens of jewelry fragments.

Likely hidden by a wealthy resident—possibly a goldsmith—around the early 7th century as the Sassanid army advanced, the treasure remained undisturbed for roughly 1,400 years.

The coins span about a century, from Emperor Justin I to Emperor Heraclius, and include rare denominations like semisses and tremisses, as well as a coin minted at a military mint in 610 CE.

The discovery provides new insight into life in Hippos during the late Byzantine period, highlighting emergency hoarding practices during times of conflict, The Times of Israel has reported.

Archaeologists also noted the mix of coins and jewelry suggests the hoard belonged to a private family rather than a church or public institution.