Chance Archaeology and Metal Detector Finds

The Portable Antiquities Scheme

Roman zoomorphic plate brooch Each year many thousands of archaeological objects, or portable antiquities, are discovered by members of the public. Most are found by metal detector users, although many are also discovered by people engaged in daily activities such as gardening or walking.These objects include metal artefacts and non-metal items such as pottery.

Portable antiquities are an invaluable resource, and reveal important information about the past. The national Portable Antiquities Scheme provides a system for the voluntary recording of these objects to ensure that this valuable information is not lost .

Since its introduction in Hampshire much important archaeological material has been recorded, providing fascinating new insights into the region's past.

The aims of the Portable Antiquities Scheme:

To provide a scheme for the recording of portable antiquities.
To encourage all those who find archaeological objects to make them available for recording.
To advance the knowledge of the history and archaeology of England and Wales.
To raise public awareness of the educational potential of archaeological finds in their context.
To increase opportunities for public involvement in archaeology.
To strengthen links between metal-detector users and archaeologists.

If you have any finds to add to the PAS database, or want further information, please contact the Hampshire Finds Liaison Officer Rob Webley on 01962 848 558 or rwebley@winchester.gov.uk.