Mammoth Bone and 17th-Century Polish Coin Unearthed Near Kyiv

Discoveries Made Near Pereiaslav

According to Главком: Volunteer fighters from a local territorial defense unit have uncovered a fragment of a mammoth thigh bone, estimated to be roughly 25,000 years old, on the outskirts of Pereiaslav. This find, specifically the epiphysis of a hip joint, suggests the possible presence of a Paleolithic settlement in the area. These discoveries highlight the region's long and layered history, which continues to be revealed even amidst modern challenges. Previously, in 2021, remains of ancient fauna and a flint arrowhead from the same period were also found here.

Survey and Additional Artifacts

A rapid survey conducted on March 27 did not yield further finds. However, an ancient Polish coin had been discovered earlier within the territory of the local nature reserve. This artifact is a silver 'półtorak' with a denomination of 1.5 grosz, minted in 1625. The coin was first noticed in early August 2025 by Oleksandr Kolybenko, head of the archaeology department and a candidate of historical sciences.

These artifacts underscore the area's significance for studying human history and advancing archaeology in Ukraine. Specifically, they provide new insights into Paleolithic life and the region's history in later periods.

The discovery of the mammoth thigh bone and the ancient coin points to the rich cultural and historical context of the Pereiaslav area. It opens new avenues for archaeological research that could reshape our understanding of human evolution and the development of civilizations in Ukraine.

Such finds emphasize the critical importance of preserving historical sites and the need for continued archaeological investigation in the region.

These recent discoveries not only shed light on the Paleolithic era but also highlight the ongoing challenges facing archaeological heritage in Ukraine. In a related incident, customs officials in Kyiv recently intercepted the smuggling of numerous archaeological artifacts destined for the U.S. and Europe, underscoring the critical need to protect such invaluable historical treasures.