permanent loan to the Bermuda Monetary Authority by the National Parks Commission.

Fifteen pieces of Hog money which date back to 1616 and are unique to the Island were discovered during an archaeological dig on one of the Castle Islands. The last time such a coin was sold it fetched $15,000.

Bermuda Maritime Museum director Dr. Edwin Harris, who spearheaded the dig at King's Castle with a team of William and Mary College, Virginia students, yesterday said: "These coins are not for sale.'' Government's Parks Commission will remain the sole owner of the collection, said Environment Minister the Hon. Gerald Simons.

Dr. Harris said Hog money was Bermuda's first currency, issued in 1616 by the Bermuda Company. The coins were also the first to be issued by England for an overseas settlement.

One of the coins found, a sixpenny piece was in "mint condition'' and one of the finest pieces of Hog money in existence, Dr. Harris said.

MINT CONDITION -- Environment Minister the Hon. Gerald Simons (right) examines a unique 17th Century "Hog'' coin -- one of 15 found on one of the Castle Islands with Mrs. Joanna Tucker of the Bermuda Monetary Authority. The collection was given to the Authority on permanent loan by the National Parks Commission yesterday.