Darwin archaeological dig Researches:

The Northern Territory Environment Department says an archaeological dig on a vacant lot in the Darwin CBD has uncovered historically significant money and medicine.

The department says among the discoveries they have found a chinese coin, an Australian penny, a pearl shell and metal that may have come off soldiers buckles during World War II.

The excavations have now reached a depth of four metres below the surface and are expected to be finalised by the end of November.

Heritage officer, Patricia Bourke says other materials including shells, bone and charcoal have also been found on the site.
“One of the most exciting finds so far has been a well that was located with help from the Chin family, who were owners of the building for many years.

“The well is a reminder of a time when there was no reticulated water in Darwin and residents relied on wells for drinking water.