Recluse's coins sold for £26,000
Relatives of a Northampton recluse are being sought to claim a share of £26,000, after a collection of ancient coins was discovered at his home after he died.
The coins were part of the estate of Terrance Richardson, who lived in Kettering Road and died in January 2008 without leaving a will.
Estate agent Richard Greener was asked to handle the sale of his assets and property but, while sorting through his effects, Mr Greener discovered a box of rare silver and bronze Roman and Greek coins.
Mr Greener said: "It was obvious he was a bit of a hoarder because there wasn't a square inch of uncovered floor space.
"It was only when I picked up some unopened Coin Collector magazines that I knew he must also have coins somewhere.
"When we found them we immediately knew they must be quite valuable because I have collected them too, but I had no idea exactly how much they were worth."
Mr Greener called on the expertise of local antiques and fine art specialist Bruce Clayton, who sent the collection to auctioneers Mellors and Kirk, in Nottingham, who conducted the sale last week.
A number of other valuable items were discovered at the house, including a collection of diecast Dinky Toy models and a near pristine 1930s Hornby train set in its original packaging.
The coins were sold in 77 lots of eight to 10 and collectively fetched about 26,000.
Little has been found out about Mr Richardson's background but neighbours have described him as a recluse.
The proceeds from the sale of his effects will go entirely to the Crown if no relatives come forward to stake a claim.
The Treasury Solicitor has already advertised for relatives of Mr Richardson but, so far, none has been found. However, the file on Mr Richardson's estate will remain open for the next 12 years so if anyone can prove they are a relative they could be entitled to a share, minus fees.
To make a claim visit www.bonavacantia.gov.uk
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