Key Takeaways:

• Locals discovered vessel with coins while cleaning pond in Kapilvastu–5
• Coins formally handed over to Kapilvastu Museum in Tilaurakot
• Experts to examine artefacts for historical period and origin
• Kapilvastu regarded as key archaeological site linked to Gautam Buddha

KAPILVASTU, JULY 22 Police in Kapilvastu have recovered what are believed to be ancient copper coins from a pond in Kapilvastu Municipality–5 and handed them over to the local museum for preservation. According to the District Police Office, locals discovered a copper-like vessel containing a large number of coins while cleaning a pond in Basni on Tuesday afternoon. Following information received by the Maryadpur Police Post, a police team was dispatched to secure the artefacts. The vessel was later opened at the District Police Office in the presence of representatives from the District Administration Office, local elected officials, museum staff and journalists. Police said the container held 2,314 copper-like coins believed to be of archaeological significance.

The recovered coins, along with the vessel, have been formally handed over to the Kapilvastu Museum in Tilaurakot for conservation and further study. Authorities said experts will examine the artefacts to determine their historical period, origin and archaeological value. Kapilvastu, home to the ancient city of Tilaurakot, is regarded as one of Nepal's most important archaeological sites linked to the life of Gautam Buddha. Police said further assessment of the discovery will be carried out by relevant heritage and archaeological authorities.