Have you ever stumbled upon a coin that seems too ancient to be part of the modern era? If so, you might need to report it - as failing to do so could result in an 'unlimited fine' or even imprisonment.

Under the Treasure Act 1996, residents of England and Wales are required to notify a Finds Liaison Officer within two weeks of discovering potential 'treasure' or realising it could be treasure. Although 'treasure' may sound like something out of a fairy tale, it actually refers to certain specific archaeological artefacts, typically several centuries old.

Current government advice, overseen by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), explains: "You must report treasure to your local Finds Liaison Officer within either: 14 days of first finding it [or] 14 days of realising a

See Full Page