Couple unearths ‘highly revered’ Ancient Roman rarity during volunteer dig at tourist site

Couple unearths ‘highly revered’ Ancient Roman rarity during volunteer dig at tourist site

Discovery reveals Victoria, goddess of victory, in an 'increasingly rare' find

Volunteers recently discovered an ancient Roman goddess depiction, shown in inset, at Vindolanda near Hadrian's Wall — highlighting the site's historical significance. (The Vindolanda Trust; Getty Images )

Jim and Dilys Quinlan, a couple from Merseyside, found the rare artifact while they were volunteering. (The Vindolanda Trust)

Experts believe the "poignant" artifact was once painted in bright colors. (The Vindolanda Trust)

Construction on Hadrian's Wall began in 122 A.D. to protect Brittania's northern border from the Picts. (Getty Images)