Treasure found in East Riding and Hull on 34 occasions last year

East Riding and Hull’s detectorists made 34 treasure finds last year – among more than 1,000 such discoveries across England and Wales.
Across England and Wales, 1,061 finds were reported last year – 6% more than the year before. Photo: PA ImagesAcross England and Wales, 1,061 finds were reported last year – 6% more than the year before. Photo: PA Images
Across England and Wales, 1,061 finds were reported last year – 6% more than the year before. Photo: PA Images

The British Museum said it was pleasing to see local museums across the country acquiring these “important archaeological objects”, but urged treasure hunters to follow the laws surrounding metal detecting.

In 2019, there were 34 treasure finds reported to East Riding and Hull Coroner’s Court, which is responsible for holding treasure inquests.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It means a total of 57 discoveries in the last three years in the area. Across England and Wales, 1,061 finds were reported last year – 6% more than the year before.

Lincolnshire was the best area for treasure, with 89 finds last year alone. In contrast, no treasure whatsoever was found in 23 areas.

The Treasure Act, introduced in 1997, defines treasure as discoveries older than 300 years.

These include coins, prehistoric metallic objects and artefacts that are at least 10% precious metal such as gold or silver.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

All potential treasure finds are processed by the British Museum, whose experts advise coroners on whether the find fits the definition of treasure.

A Ministry of Justice report on last year’s treasure finds said the number of discoveries has been steadily increasing since the Treasure Act commenced – rising from just 54 finds in 1997. There were 380 inquests concluded last year, with more than 90% returning a verdict of treasure.

Ian Richardson, treasure registrar at the British Museum, said: “The purpose of the Treasure Act is to enable important archaeological objects to be acquired by museums, for the benefit of all.

“It is pleasing to see local museums interested in acquiring a number of these finds if they are declared Treasure.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Anyone fortunate enough to discover something they think is treasure must report their finding to the coroner within two weeks, so the court can hold an inquest to decide who should get the to keep it.

Failure to do so can result in an unlimited fine or up to three months in prison.