Rare 2,000-Year-Old Brooch Unearthed by Detectorist in Dorset
A metal detectorist, identified as Martin Turner, has discovered a rare 2,000-year-old brooch while searching fields near his home in Puddletown, Dorset. He initially mistook the artifact for "a kid's toy" before realizing its significance.
Discovery and Initial Assessment
According to Mr. Turner, upon washing the discovered item, he noticed signs of "bronze disease," which suggested it was old. He then contacted his local finds liaison officer, who confirmed the brooch's age. The liaison officer intends to document the significant find.
Turner explained,
"Every field I go in I find stuff. I must have 13 Chinese tubs full of antiquities."This recent find adds to his already extensive collection of historical artifacts.
Future of the Brooch
The future of the 2,000-year-old brooch is currently uncertain. If no claim is made, Mr. Turner will receive the brooch back. He is considering donating it to a local museum, ensuring its preservation and accessibility to the public. He sent it to his local finds liaison officer, who confirmed its age and would now like to document it.
Turner's Metal Detecting Hobby and Past Finds
Mr. Turner, along with his son, has been metal detecting for three years, amassing hundreds of finds. He attributes his interest in the hobby to his move to the area. One of their most notable discoveries was 14 Bronze Age axe heads, described as "unreal," which were subsequently sent to the British Museum in London.
The Treasure Act 1996 and Finder's Fees
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the Treasure Act 1996 governs the classification of discovered objects as treasure. Generally, an object must be at least 300 years old to qualify. If the object is not a coin, it must contain at least 10% precious metal (gold or silver) by weight.
Recent changes in 2023 have expanded the definition of treasure to include objects over 200 years old that are deemed to be of outstanding historical, archaeological, or cultural importance. If an item is declared treasure and acquired by a museum, the finder receives a financial reward, known as a finder's fee.
