Chinese archaeologists have opened the external lid of a tomb which they believe belongs to a marquis from the Western Han Dynasty (206 - 24 AD). Trove of treasures of gold and jade was excavated at the site. 

The outer plank has a length of 3.4 meters and width of 1.6 meter. Apart from the valuables, they also found a rosefinch painting on top of the inner coffin. "We are glad to see the interior coffin is well preserved. There are lacquer paintings on its surface," project head Xin Lixiang said.

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Some gold plates about 22 centimeteres long and 10 centimeters wide as well as coins weighing up to 250 grams were found at the site. The total coins counted increased to 378 after the team excavated 68 more last Friday. 

Further exploration is yet to commence at the burial site's primary chamber. The number of coins found shows China's compelling gold reserve during that period.

Archaeologists claim this is the biggest excavation ever among Han Dynasty tombs. The scientists theorize that the tomb belongs to Emperor Wu's grandson Liu He. He was popularly known as "Haihunhou" or "Marquis of Haihun." The identity is yet to be confirmed until archaeologists find the seal that marks the identity of the remains.

The excavated mausoleum is located near Nanchang city. Expanding up to 40,000 square meters, the burial site contains eight tombs and several chariots. 

The title "Haihunhou" was given to the prince after he was discrowned only 27 days after he took over the kingdom. His kin allegedly ousted him on grounds of insufficient talent and morals.

Since its unearthing operation in 2011, the team has excavated immense wealth and artifacts. Among the items found were some 10,000 items made from gold, iron or bronze. They has also found the what is believed to be the earliest portrait of the great Chinese philosopher Confucius.  

TagsHan Dynasty, Marquis of Haihun, Nanchang city, Haihunhou