Jersey's Chief Minister says it would be 'an absolute tragedy' if the government does not buy the Iron Age coin hoard on behalf of islanders.
Senator John Le Fondré has revealed a value is expected to be formalised 'in the quite near future' between the Crown, the finders - Reg Mead and Richard Miles - and the landowner.
The government has already paid more than £730,000 - a quarter of a million went to Jersey Heritage to conserve the 74,000 coins unearthed in a field by metal detectorists in 2012.
Senator Le Fondre says it is being treated as it would have been had it been found in the UK:
"The Crown says it wants to act in the spirit of the British law - which is the UK Treasures Act - and that is to make the hoard available for public enjoyment, ultimately through Jersey Heritage. But also, to recognise the part played by the finders and landowners by way of a reward."
Its value has previously been reported as up to £2.5 million pounds.
Haut du Mont trial: Island Energy 'placed health and safety at risk'
Deportation recommended after sex-demanding attacker jailed
Teenage boy arrested on suspicion of sexual touching at Millbrook Park
Eyes up! It's Air Display day...
Haut Du Mont Trial: 'It could explode', jury hears 999 calls
Haut Du Mont Trial: Worker checking gas valves spent almost 'entire' time on his phone
Red Arrows still expected for Jersey Air Show
Haut Du Mont Trial: Gas works were 'sloppy, unsafe, and cut corners', allege prosecutors
