How do I know if my find is worth anything?
Verdict summary
Identify it first: value depends on exactly what it is, its date, condition and rarity. Gold and silver items are worth at least their metal content. For coins and jewellery a reputable dealer or auction house can value them; archaeological finds can be recorded by a museum or finds liaison officer.
Do not clean it, and keep a note of where and how deep you found it; the find spot can matter more than the object.
Most finds are worth little in money but a lot as history. Rare finds reported under treasure laws can bring a reward.
Sources: Portable Antiquities Scheme; Treasure Act 1996.
How do I identify an old coin I found? Look for the country, denomination, date and mint mark, then match the design in a coin catalogue. If the date is worn, the portrait, legend lettering, size and metal narrow it down. Free references include Numista and, for British finds, the Portable Antiquities Scheme database.
How can I tell how old a ring is? Look inside the band for stamps. Purity marks (10K, 14K, 18K, 585, 750, 925, 'sterling') show the metal. British hallmarks traditionally include a date letter giving the year of assay (optional since 1999). Maker's marks, style, wear and the setting narrow the date further.
What happens if you find treasure in the UK? The Treasure Act 1996 covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Finds that legally count as treasure, mainly gold and silver objects and coin hoards over 300 years old, must be reported to the local coroner within 14 days. A museum may acquire the find, and a reward is usually shared between the finder and the landowner.
Primary sources cited
- Portable Antiquities Scheme
- Treasure Act 1996