A metal detectorist discovered a hidden piece of history dating back to the medieval age.
The almost-complete silver brooch, comprising of a circular decoration and a pin, was dug up by Paul Jones while he was exploring in Pensby and Thingwall, in Wirral, on February 13 2022. He reported his find to the Museum of Liverpool, who in turn reported it to the British Museum.
An investigation carried out by archaeological historian Helen Beaton determined the brooch was probably made between 1200 and 1300. It measured 20.95mm across, with a thickness of 2.22mm and a weight of 2.83g.
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At an inquest to determine whether the rare find could be legally classed as treasure, coroner Andre Rebello said yesterday, March 8: "The brooch is more than 10% precious metal and is at least 300 years old, therefore meets the criteria for treasure under the Treasure Act 1996."
He added: "The finder and landowner have both been notified of the report from the British Museum, and I understand the British Museum, through the Museum of Liverpool, which is also a national museum, has expressed an interest in acquiring the brooch, so it will eventually be on public display."
The hearing was the first treasure inquest to be heard in Liverpool since records began, which Mr Rebello said was "extraordinary" given the city's rich history.
He said: "I have heard of people finding things in the tunnels, but no one has reported treasure to me since I started in the 1990s and I can't find a treasure inquest in the records, which I find a little surprising. Hopefully this will encourage metal detectorists to report treasure, so the history of this important area can be recorded and future generations can actually see these important treasure artefacts."
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