Britain’s largest recorded Iron Age gold coin hoard has been secured for Museum of Chelmsford. The hoard of 933 gold Iron Age coins, thought to be linked to Julius Caesar, has been acquired by the museum through a lottery grant. While this is a fabulous find, it has highlighted the importance of doing things right when metal detecting.
Some of you may have seen the news around this amazing discovery. Unfortunately it has been marred by the metal detectorist who found it. They did not have permission to detect on the land and when the hoard was discovered the finder failed to declare it under the Treasure Act 1996. Even though the detectorist later declared it to the landowner, and the hoard was submitted to the local Finds Liaison Officer, the detectorist was still arrested by Essex Police after being found in possession of further undeclared coins.
We all know how tough it can be to get a landowners permission to detect. So when things like this happen, it gives the hobby a bad name. Whether you are just starting out in metal detecting or have been doing this for years, it’s vital you follow the code of conduct and all the relevant laws.
If you are unfamiliar with any of these please visit our website for help and advice. If no doubt ask! Whether that means emailing us or asking fellow members on the forum. It’s always better to ask, don’t guess.
You can read the full story on this amazing find here.
