The British Museum has released its latest Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) Annual Report, revealing a record-breaking 74,506 archaeological discoveries made in the United Kingdom by the public in 2023. This marks a significant increase from the 53,490 finds recorded in the previous year. The vast majority—95%—were uncovered by metal detectorists, predominantly in agricultural regions where ploughing and farm activity would have otherwise risked their loss.
Among the medieval highlights featured in the report is a rare early medieval silver penny of Guthrum, the Viking ruler of East Anglia, discovered in Norfolk. This coin, issued in his baptismal name Æthelstan (II), represents the first silver currency minted by a Viking ruler in Britain. It was also the first find declared Treasure under the UK’s new significance-based criteria. The penny provides valuable historical insight into the Viking presence in England and the transition of power in the late 9th century.
Another remarkable medieval discovery showcased at the report’s launch was a stunning gold and garnet grave assemblage found in Donington on Bain, Lincolnshire. The grave goods, dating to the 7th century, likely belonged to a high-status woman and offer a glimpse into the wealth and craftsmanship of early medieval England.
The Treasure Annual Report for 2022, also released alongside the PAS report, details 1,377 Treasure finds from that year. Norfolk continued to be the leading county for Treasure discoveries, with 95 finds comprising over 170 objects.
The reports underscore the importance of responsible metal detecting and the role of the PAS in preserving Britain’s archaeological heritage. Dr Nicholas Cullinan, Director of the British Museum, praised the contributions of metal detectorists and volunteers, stating, “This success is a testament to the hundreds of metal detectorists who contribute their time to making these valuable discoveries – and then report their finds to us. The work of the finders, volunteers and Finds Liaison Officers has created the largest database of its kind, providing a wealth of information to the public on their nation’s history.”
Michael Lewis, Head of PAS and Treasure at the British Museum, highlighted the growing number of reported discoveries, adding, “Over 70,000 archaeological items were recorded onto the PAS database. Although finders are required to report Treasure, most of these finds are reported on a voluntary basis, which makes this a truly remarkable contribution.”
British Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant also acknowledged the impact of these finds on public heritage, noting, “It is fantastic to have a record year for historic finds and discoveries, which will be going to museums around the country, sharing new insights into our rich history. The wealth of information these discoveries provide plays a vital role in helping to tell our national story.”
The PAS continues to serve as a vital link between amateur finders and professional archaeologists, ensuring that significant historical objects—such as the Guthrum penny and the Lincolnshire grave assemblage—are preserved and studied rather than lost to time.
The British Museum has released its latest Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) Annual Report, revealing a record-breaking 74,506 archaeological discoveries made in the United Kingdom by the public in 2023. This marks a significant increase from the 53,490 finds recorded in the previous year. The vast majority—95%—were uncovered by metal detectorists, predominantly in agricultural regions where ploughing and farm activity would have otherwise risked their loss.
Among the medieval highlights featured in the report is a rare early medieval silver penny of Guthrum, the Viking ruler of East Anglia, discovered in Norfolk. This coin, issued in his baptismal name Æthelstan (II), represents the first silver currency minted by a Viking ruler in Britain. It was also the first find declared Treasure under the UK’s new significance-based criteria. The penny provides valuable historical insight into the Viking presence in England and the transition of power in the late 9th century.
Another remarkable medieval discovery showcased at the report’s launch was a stunning gold and garnet grave assemblage found in Donington on Bain, Lincolnshire. The grave goods, dating to the 7th century, likely belonged to a high-status woman and offer a glimpse into the wealth and craftsmanship of early medieval England.
The Treasure Annual Report for 2022, also released alongside the PAS report, details 1,377 Treasure finds from that year. Norfolk continued to be the leading county for Treasure discoveries, with 95 finds comprising over 170 objects.
The reports underscore the importance of responsible metal detecting and the role of the PAS in preserving Britain’s archaeological heritage. Dr Nicholas Cullinan, Director of the British Museum, praised the contributions of metal detectorists and volunteers, stating, “This success is a testament to the hundreds of metal detectorists who contribute their time to making these valuable discoveries – and then report their finds to us. The work of the finders, volunteers and Finds Liaison Officers has created the largest database of its kind, providing a wealth of information to the public on their nation’s history.”
Michael Lewis, Head of PAS and Treasure at the British Museum, highlighted the growing number of reported discoveries, adding, “Over 70,000 archaeological items were recorded onto the PAS database. Although finders are required to report Treasure, most of these finds are reported on a voluntary basis, which makes this a truly remarkable contribution.”
British Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant also acknowledged the impact of these finds on public heritage, noting, “It is fantastic to have a record year for historic finds and discoveries, which will be going to museums around the country, sharing new insights into our rich history. The wealth of information these discoveries provide plays a vital role in helping to tell our national story.”
The PAS continues to serve as a vital link between amateur finders and professional archaeologists, ensuring that significant historical objects—such as the Guthrum penny and the Lincolnshire grave assemblage—are preserved and studied rather than lost to time.
Top Image: Early Medieval gold and garnet grave assemblage from near Donington on Bain, Lincolnshire. Photo © The Trustees of the British Museum
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