A LARGE haul of silver coins has been found buried on the site of the Battle of Roslin. It is thought the money may have been payment for mercenaries fighting in the First War of Scottish Independence.

The coins were discovered hidden beneath a tree by metal detectorist brothers Jaroslaw and Marcin Musialkowski.

Archaeologists are examining whether there is a connection with the 1303 battle.

Academics from the Scottish Treasure Trove unit at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh are studying the priceless finds.

A design on some of the coins appears to bear a resemblance to English monarch King Edward I, who reigned from 1272 until 1307. Others appear to be from an Irish mint.

Jaroslaw Musialkowski said: “We had found some silver at the site before, but nothing of this level. We had some archaeological experts come down and excavate the site.

“They picked up some items but not many. It was only after we went back and found 44 more coins that we realised we were really on to something.”

The Battle of Roslin was won by Scottish forces led by the Guardian of Scotland, John Comyn.

Amateur historian Musialkowski, originally from Poland but who now lives in Penicuik, Midlothian, added: “There is a theory from local people that it could be working women’s silver.

“There were thousands of men in the camp so it is possible. But I think it is more likely to have been payment for mercenaries who took part in the battle.

“Those hiring them would not have wanted to pay out before the battle – it is much cheaper to just pay who is left.

So I think it is possible it was buried with the intention of digging it up later, but we have to wait and see what the museum says.”