Mohali, Aug. 26 -- A routine excavation at the site to construct a public library in Gharuan, Kharar, turned into a treasure hunt after several old coins were unearthed. The coins were first spotted by children playing near the site and, as the news spread, locals rushed in and began excavating the area in the hope of finding more. The frenzy lasted for three to four hours before the nagar panchayat stepped in to secure the site.

By then, people, including children, had pocketed all but two coins. Officials estimate that around 20-30 coins were found at the site, but their exact number and the historical period are yet to be ascertained.

The excavation began on August 24 under the nagar panchayat's project to construct a library in Ward...