Discovery of Rare Bronze Age Gold Torc Unearths Ancient Secrets near Mistley

Bronze Age Gold Torc Discovered in Field Near Mistley

A Rare and Remarkable Find

In a remarkable discovery, a section of a Bronze Age twisted gold torc has been unearthed in a field near Mistley, on the banks of the River Stour in Essex. The archaeologist and metal detectorist who made the find reported it to the Portable Antiquities Scheme three years ago, and it has now been declared treasure by a coroner. This discovery is particularly significant as it is the very first torc reported as treasure from Essex.

Finds liaison officer Lori Rogerson expressed her awe at the craftsmanship of the ancient torc, stating that despite being made of prehistoric gold, it looks as if it could have been made yesterday – “mind blowing” indeed. According to Rogerson, gold metalwork from the Bronze Age is rare in Essex, making this find even more extraordinary.

Delving into History

The torc, which is approximately 147mm long, was made using a rectangular rod with four grooves cut into it. Experts from the British Museum have confirmed that the piece is made of at least 75% gold, with around 18% silver and traces of copper. The artistry and expertise involved in crafting this torc is truly impressive, with Rogerson noting that a highly skilled goldsmith would have been responsible for its creation. The gold being a soft material, means that there was a risk of tearing, but the goldsmith must have known just the right point to stop before it broke, while still managing to incorporate the intricate twists.

The torc is believed to come from the Middle Bronze Age, dating back to around 1300BC. Its discovery sheds light on the wealth and craftmanship of the inhabitants of ancient Essex. Colchester Museum has expressed interest in acquiring the torc, recognizing its immense historical and cultural significance.

The Significance of the Find

The discovery of the Bronze Age gold torc reveals the existence of a sophisticated and prosperous society in ancient Essex. It attests to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen of the time, who were able to work with precious materials like gold and silver. The find also highlights the importance of metal detecting as a tool for uncovering hidden treasures of the past. The detectorist’s decision to report the find to the Portable Antiquities Scheme three years ago demonstrates a commendable commitment to preserving and understanding our shared history.

Treasures from the Past: The Legal and Ethical Dimension

The discovery of this Bronze Age torc raises important questions about the legal and ethical considerations surrounding such finds. Under the 1996 Treasure Act in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, any archaeological object that is more than 300 years old, made of gold or silver, or found with gold or silver artifacts, is classified as treasure. It is essential that metal detectorists and others engaging in treasure hunting activities familiarize themselves with the laws and regulations governing the reporting and ownership of such discoveries. In accordance with the Act, the ownership of any declared treasure belongs to the landowner, while museums and institutions have the opportunity to acquire these artifacts for public display and research purposes.

The Importance of Protecting our Heritage

Discoveries such as this Bronze Age gold torc emphasize the importance of preserving our rich cultural heritage. These artifacts provide invaluable insights into the lives and achievements of our ancestors, helping us to better understand our shared human history. It is essential that we support initiatives like the Portable Antiquities Scheme, which encourages collaboration between archaeologists, metal detectorists, and the wider public in order to document and protect our archaeological heritage. By promoting responsible treasure hunting and emphasizing the value of proper reporting and documentation, we can ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from these fascinating discoveries.