What to Do If You Find Treasure: A Guide to England's Treasure Act of 1996

METAL DETECTING URBAN GOLD HUNT

12/28/20233 min read

a light that is on the side of a building
a light that is on the side of a building

Discovering treasure, whether it be gold, silver, or other valuable items, can be an exhilarating experience. However, it is important to understand the legal and ethical obligations that come with such a find. In England, the Treasure Act of 1996 provides guidelines on how to handle and report discovered treasure. This blog post will provide you with valuable information on what to do if you find treasure, including an overview of the Treasure Act and the steps to determine if your find meets the criteria.

The Treasure Act of 1996: An Overview

The Treasure Act of 1996 is a legislation enacted in England and Wales that governs the discovery and ownership of treasure. The act defines treasure as any object that is at least 300 years old and contains a certain quantity of precious metal. This includes items such as coins, jewelry, and other valuable artifacts.

Under the Treasure Act, if you discover an item that meets the criteria of treasure, you are legally obligated to report it to the local coroner within 14 days of the discovery. Failure to do so can result in penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.

Determining if Your Find is Treasure

If you stumble upon what you believe to be treasure, it is essential to determine whether it meets the criteria set forth by the Treasure Act. Here are the steps to help you make this determination:

Step 1: Age of the Object

The first step is to assess the age of the object. According to the Treasure Act, the item must be at least 300 years old to be considered treasure. This can be determined through research, consultation with experts, or by examining any accompanying documentation or markings.

Step 2: Precious Metal Content

The second step is to establish the presence of a certain quantity of precious metal. For coins, the Treasure Act requires that they contain at least 10% precious metal by weight. For other objects, such as jewelry or artifacts, they must have a minimum of 10% precious metal and be found in association with coins or coin hoards.

Step 3: The "Substantial" Rule

If the object is made of precious metal but does not meet the age or associated coin requirements, it may still be considered treasure under the "substantial" rule. This rule applies if the object's precious metal content is significantly higher than the minimum requirements or if it is of outstanding historical, archaeological, or cultural importance.

What to Do If You Find Treasure

If you have determined that your find meets the criteria of treasure, it is crucial to follow the proper procedures outlined by the Treasure Act. Here are the steps you should take:

Step 1: Report the Find

As mentioned earlier, you must report the discovery of treasure to the local coroner within 14 days. The coroner will then examine the find and determine whether it meets the criteria of treasure as defined by the Treasure Act.

Step 2: The Inquest Process

If the coroner deems your find to be treasure, it will be subject to an inquest. During the inquest, experts and interested parties will have the opportunity to examine the find and provide their insights. The coroner will then decide on the ownership of the treasure.

Step 3: The Reward

If your treasure is declared as such, you may be entitled to a reward. The reward is usually based on the market value of the find and is shared between the finder and the owner of the land where the treasure was discovered. The exact division of the reward will be determined by the Treasure Valuation Committee.

The Importance of Reporting Treasure

Reporting discovered treasure is not only a legal obligation but also an essential step in preserving our history and heritage. By reporting your find, you contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the past, allowing experts to study and learn from these valuable artifacts. Additionally, it helps prevent the illegal trade and destruction of cultural heritage.

Remember, the Treasure Act of 1996 was put in place to protect both finders and the wider public interest. By adhering to the guidelines and reporting your discovery, you ensure that the historical and cultural significance of the treasure is properly recognized and preserved.

Conclusion

Finding treasure can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it is crucial to understand the legal obligations and responsibilities that come with such a find. The Treasure Act of 1996 provides clear guidelines on how to handle and report discovered treasure, ensuring that its historical and cultural significance is preserved for future generations. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can navigate the process with confidence and contribute to the preservation of our rich heritage.