Metal Detecting End of Year Reality

You might have recently heard detectorists complaining about the inadequate service provided to them by PAS and how this reduces their willingness to report their finds (as they are morally or legally obliged to do}. Don’t be taken in. Look at this from 13 years ago:

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National Council for Metal Detecting Policy Statement January 2009: “We believe that the current levels of delay are unacceptable. They are severely testing the goodwill of finders and undermining the provisions of the Treasure Act by introducing a disincentive to reporting”

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As well as being dishonest it’s profoundly churlish: British metal detectorists are already uniquely privileged as their activity is legalised and even encouraged whereas in many places elsewhere it would land them in jail. Plus, if they get lucky they can be paid large rewards for “Treasure” items. What arrogance to complain that delays in paying them are “unacceptable“?! It’s blackmail.

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More Heritage Journal views on artefact collecting
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Antiquarian Advent – Day 17

The Whispering Knights, Oxfordshire