dejp3/bronze-age-objects-pas huggingface dataset:
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Broad Chalke, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 27.6 mm
Thickness: 14.9 mm
Weight: 25.4 g
Description: A fragment of a copper alloy palstave with casting flaw, dating from the Middle to Late Bronze Age c. 1500 - 1150 BC. The fragment is sub-rectangular in shape and only the butt survives. The axe has an angular butt and the sides gradually widen towards the break. Both sides of the palstave have high developed flanges, which increase gradually from the butt to from sub-triangular sides. 



The faces of the axe fragment are slightly concave, creating a H-shaped cross-section. There is a large casting flaw on one face, in the form of an air bubble. The bubble extends the entirety of the palstave's thickness, likely creating a point of weakness and contributing to the eventual break. The faces of the axe show signs of wear, such as scratches and the break is even and patinated, suggesting that the object was broken in antiquity. Due to the fragmentary nature of the object, it is difficult to confidently assign a Type. 



The fragment measures 27.6 mm in length, 25.4 mm wide, 14.9 mm thick and weighs 25.4 g.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Awl (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: West Acre, King's Lynn and West Norfolk, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 32 mm
Thickness: 2.8 mm
Weight: 1.49 g
Description: Incomplete Late Bronze Age copper alloy awl, both ends missing (recent breaks). The tang is of sub-square cross-section and the blade sub-circular. At the centre the cross-section is almost square (2.8 x 3mm). Extant length 32mm. Weight 1.49g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Blade (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 150 mm
Thickness: 3.6 mm
Weight: 35.19 g
Description: Copper alloy blade. Cast blade from a short stabbing rapier or dagger; possibly the former reduced to the latter by sharpening over a prolonged period. Dot Boughton kindly advised upon the identification and dating of the object. The blade has a rounded end tapering to a point with sharp sides. The section is lentoid, and thinned by sharpening which has introduced a waisted form to its mid section. The blade expands towards the hilt, with sloped shoulders and a tang of rectangular section which is torn at a single drilled hole of diameter 4.5mm which appears to have cut across the U-shaped end of the tang. This may be damage from loss of plates forming a handle, or may relate to its repair.



The thickness noted at the tang may continue along the blade to about half way along it as a species of mid rib, though there are no other features to show this was a deliberately formed or maintained feature. Fine diagonal striations appear along both sides of the blade; this might be taken as further evidence for sharpening in antiquity, followed by deposition in extremely favourable conditions for the preservation of the surface of the metal. The edges of the blade remain sharp. However, the finder is an enthusiastic cleaner and refurbisher of his artefacts, so some or all of this evidence may be of recent date. Some pale green pitting on the upper part of the blade appears to be of some age, though the smoothing of surfaces around it may not be. The lower part of the blade is slightly up-turned. Suggested date: Late Bronze Age, 1000-800 BC.



Length: 150mm, Width (at shoulders): 19.0mm, Thickness (blade): 3.6mm, Thickness (tang): 3.4mm, Weight: 35.19gms.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Miniature Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-700 to -500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 17.39 mm
Thickness: 8.33 mm
Weight: 6.38 g
Description: A late Bronze Age or early Iron Age cast copper-alloy miniature socketed axe measuring 17.39mm by 13.01mm. The socket is shallow, and the loop is a circular hole inset from the edge of the axe. The blade is blunt and flat.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Razor (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2150 to -1500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Clanfield, West Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 93 mm
Thickness: 3 mm
Weight: 19.33 g
Description: A mid Bronze Age copper-alloy leaf-shaped razor. 93mm long, 27mmm wide and 3mm thick with a weight of 19.33grams.



The razor has a leaf-shaped (pointed oval) form with a projecting rectangular cross-sectioned tang at one end. The blade runs the length of each side and is intact at its upper pointed edge, but damaged along the sides. It has a pronounced angular mid rib visible on one face and just a hint of a rib on the other. The tang is bent round to form a hook like shape and is not pierced as in some cases. The nearest comparable example is WAW-878535, the object dates to 2,150-1,500 BC



See also Watson, P. 1993 no. 76, a razor metal detected in 1986 in Bewdley Worcestershire and now in Birmingham museum  (1987.A218.)
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Ring (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to ROMAN (-1000 to 410)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Shrewton, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Diameter: 20.95 mm
Thickness: 5.75 mm
Weight: 9.13 g
Description: A copper alloy possible horse harness ring of Bronze Age to Roman date (c. 1000 BC - AD 410). The ring measures 20.95mm in diameter (internal diameter 9.9mm), is 5.75mm thick and weighs 9.13 grams. It is circular in shape with a defined circumferential ridge running around the centre and flattened faces above and below. The interior surface also features a defined circumferential ridge, creating a hexagonal cross section. The interior surface exhibits scratch or wear marks which appear to have occured during use. The ring has a pitted dark brown patina with patches of green.



Similar rings have been discovered in a number of Bronze Age hoards and have been suggested as horse harness fittings, as being part of the handles of a sheet-metal cauldron of Class A1 (Type Tul-na-cross) and Class B1 (Types Llyn Fawr, Ballyshannon and Castlederg) (Gerloff 2010, Pl. 17, 7b; Pl.32, 14a; Pl. 33, 14f-h; Pl. 34, 15d, Pl. 54, 33c and Pl. 66, 37g)., or part of a chain from which a cauldron or other vessel was suspended over a fire.



Cf. WILT-9439A7 for a similar example on the database.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Gouge (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1150 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Chilham, Ashford, Kent (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 38.3 mm
Thickness: 10.3 mm
Weight: 20.95 g
Description: A fragment of a Late Bronze Age copper-alloy gouge (1150 - 800 BC). The gouge consists of the rectangular shaped blade tip. It is possible that this gouge was socket, however there is no indication of a socket remaining. The blade is C-shaped in cross-section throughout its length and concave, with the hollow of the blade increasing towards the cutting-edge. The sides of the blade are parallel and the cutting-edge is rounded and there is a visible casting-seam present on one side of the object. The break is semi-circular in cross-section and the reverse of the gouge is rounded.



The gouge measures 38.3 mm in length, 13.9 mm wide, 10.3 mm thick and weighs 20.95 g.



There are a number of similar objects recorded on the database including LIN-F1C06A and a socketed example IOW-EC25A7. If this gouge was socketed, it is likely that this tool is from the Wilberton, Ewart Park or Llyn Fawr metalworking phases which correspond to Needham's (1996) Period's 6 - 8. Socketed gouges have been found associated with metalwork assemblages of Wilberton (eg. Guilsfield, Savory, 1980, No. 268. 64-65) through Ewart Park (eg Penwyllt, Savory 1980, No 284. 7-8) and Llyn Fawr (Savory 1980, No 291 9-11).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Arrowhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1300 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Yaxham, Breckland, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 24.7 mm
Thickness: 5.9 mm
Weight: 3.91 g
Description: A fragment of a cast copper-alloy arrowhead or possibly a small leaf-shaped spearhead, probably of late Bronze Age date and attributable to the Penard or Ewart Park phase, c. 1300 - 800 BC. The fragment comprises the upper tip of the arrowhead, which has a rounded midrib and broken outer edges; the fragment is triangular in plan with an asymmetrical pointed oval cross-section.  The fragment has a dark brown, glossy patina.  No trace of the socket is visible on this fragment, but it is likely if the object was socketed it would begin further down the original object. The arrowhead measures 24.7mm long, 11.3mm wide, 5.9mm thick and weighs 3.91 grams.



There are few confirmed Bronze Age socketed arrowheads found in the UK; possible examples on the PAS database include SF9209, WMID-28FC66 and SWYOR-C57356. Like the example recorded here, it is possible that all of these pieces are small spearheads rather than arrowheads - see, for example, database record BH-E94CD1.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-900 to -700)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Moulsford, South Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 23.4 mm
Thickness: 4.54 mm
Weight: 6.38 g
Description: 
A fragment of a possible Bronze Age socketed axe or tool. While the size and proportions are fine for a socketed axe the recessed panel on the lower, broken, edge suggests a much later date, even into the medieval period.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Bole, Bassetlaw, Nottinghamshire (East Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 24.4 mm
Thickness: 13.3 mm
Weight: 36.69 g
Description: A fragment of a cast bronze (copper alloy) socketed axe of Late Bronze Age date (1000 - 750 BC). The axe is incomplete; it is missing the mouth and upper part of the socket including the loop and is broken below the mid-point. Due to the damage classification is difficult. It is likely that this axe fits within the socketed and faceted axe typology probably associated with the Wilburton metalworking traditions (phase X) and earlier phases of the Ewart Park tradition (phase XII). This corresponds to Needham's (1996) Period 6-7 circa 1000-750 CAL. BC.



The axe is broadly sub-rectangular in plan with a slightly flared / expanded, convex, but much abraded, cutting edge. In profile the fragment is sub-triangular / wedge shaped. The socket is also sub-rectangular in cross section with the side walls tapering evenly to a narrow rectangular base. The depth of the socket from the edge of the break to base of socket is 6.7mm. The broken edges are all well abraded and patinated suggesting the damage is old. Both the casting seams (which run down the sides of the axe) show signs of finishing (being trimmed and flattened). The expanded blade has a curved convex (crescent shaped) cutting edge which is relatively poorly preserved. The blade edge has been lost through abrasion and corrosion. The axe fragment is a mid brown colour with an even, well formed patina which covers most surfaces. There are several areas where this patina has been lost leaving light green / grey corrosion visible.



The axe fragment measures 24.4mm long, 42mm wide, 13.3mm thick and is 36.69g. The walls are 3.6mm to 5mm thick. It can be compared to HESH-B617D3, KENT-ECBAFE and SWYOR-7C54E2.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Flat Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2150 to -1500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Hemingby, East Lindsey, Lincolnshire (East Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 83 mm
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 87.4 g
Description: A cast copper alloy flat axe dating from the Early Bronze Age, that is about 2150 - 1500 BC. The axe is narrow with straight but tapering sides and there are no signs of a stop ridge. The butt is missing but would have been narrow. It has a very slightly flared convex cutting edge. The sides of the axe are very slightly thickened, but it does not have flanges. The surface, particularly the cutting edge, is pitted and corroded though the remaning surface has a smooth, deep green patina. The break at the butt end is equally patinated. The axe is 19.7mm wide at the break. The axe probably fits into the earliest phases of metal working in Britain, metalworking stage I-II, which corresponds to Needham's (1996) Period 1-2 circa 2500- 2050 CAL. BC, or slightly later. The axe is 83mm long, 37.1mm wide and 6mm thick. 87.4g. The blade facets are about 7.5mm from the cutting edge to the flat face of the axe. Compare WAW-049216, LANCUM-E3C336, SUR-25F712, HAMP-1556C2 and HESH-84D8A5.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Hoard (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1000)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Grafton and Radcot, West Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Description: Fragments of the hilt and blade of two Middle Bronze Age rapiers. Fragment two is in two joining pieces. Both appear to belong to the same broad Group in Bugess & Gerloff's (1981) scheme: Group IV, the blade in two sections is probably Type Appleby and the blade in one section has parallels among Type Killucan and Type Corncarrow.



Fragment one: 140.53mm long; 22.00mm wide; 5.72mm thick; weight 43.96g.



Fragment two: 106.04mm long; 30.34mm wide; 3.73mm thick; weight 31.65g.
Subsequent action: Acquired by museum after being declared Treasure
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-950 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Grafton and Radcot, West Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 80.75 mm
Thickness: 33.4 mm
Weight: 90.57 g
Description: A complete cast bronze (copper alloy) faceted socketed axe (axehead) of Late Bronze Age date (950 - 750 BC). The axe is elegantly cast being relatively slender and well proportioned with a trumpet shaped collar, relatively narrow sides, which taper slightly and then expand to form a sub-triangular shaped blade.



The mouth of the axe is sub-circular in cross section. The shape of the mouth is sub-rectangular (rectangular with rounded corners) at measures 33.25mm wide. The trumpet-shaped mouth of the axe tapers and the loop is relatively small in a low position set well beneath the collar. Directly above the loop is a cast decorative circumferential ridge The loop is D-shaped in cross section (5.95mm wide). The upper body of the axe could be described as faceted, with six faces; however, the facets are relatively low and slight. The lower section of the axe flares to form an elegantly expanding blade (38.3mm wide). The casting flashes on the sides of the axe are still visible and have not been finished. The cutting edge itself is abraded, although the crescent shaped edge is regular suggesting little evidence of wear / sustained use. Apart from the grooves below the collar there is no evidence of other ornament on the axe.



The socketed axe is 80.75mm in length, 38.3mm wide, 33.4mm thick and weighs 90.57 grams.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Rapier (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Lilleshall, Donnington and Muxton, Telford and Wrekin, Telford and Wrekin (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 51.4 mm
Thickness: 7.4 mm
Weight: 23.7 g
Description: An incomplete fragment from a much eroded cast bronze (copper alloy) rapier of Middle Bronze Age date (1500-1150BC). The fragment consists of part of the lower blade a rapier, the tip has been previously recorded (HESH-3B6C58) and was recovered by a different finder from the same field. The two blade pieces conjoin and should therefore be considered as part of the same artefact. The fragment is broadly sub-rectangular in plan with one end being slightly tapered. A central ridge / mid rib runs along the length of the fragment on both faces. The rapier fragment is a mid-green colour with an uneven and eroded surface patina. The breaks are abraded therefore it is problematic to suggest if the rapier was deliberately broken prior to deposition or if it has been broken by farm machinery in the plough soil. However, this fragment in profile is noticeably bent, so it could be likely that the object has been purposefully bent before deposition. This could suggest that the object was subjected to a ritual process before being placed in the ground. The findspot looks to be close to the edge of a large mere or area of historic wetland - possibly suggesting that if this rapier were ritually disposed of it was then placed at a liminal boundary; this is a common feature of wetland deposition in prehistoric Britain. A direct parallel for the rapier blade cannot be attributed due to the fragmentary nature and lack of diagnostic features and so a broad Middle Bronze Age date is suggested.



The fragment measures 51.4mm in length, 18.0m width and is 17.4mm thick. It weighs 23.7 grams. When the two fragments are placed together they measure a total of 121.06mm and in total weigh 44.9 grams.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Fradley and Streethay, Lichfield, Staffordshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 47.3 mm
Diameter: 15 mm
Thickness: 1.9 mm
Weight: 16.5 g
Description: An incomplete copper alloy, probable side looped and socketed spearhead, of Middle Bronze Age dating (1500 BC to 1150 BC).



Around 25% of the spearhead is present, consisting of the central section. The base, blade and point are missing, presumed lost in antiquity.



The spearhead fragment is a hollow sub conical tube. At the top, the base of the blade is present. Below this, on both sides are 5 small horizontal grooves. The side loops are positioned underneath these grooves, and would have been sub lozenge in shape. The top of the socket is circular.



It measures 47.3 mm in length. It has a minimum diameter of 11.0 mm (top) and a maximum of 15.0 mm (base). The side loops have a length of 17.5 mm. The walls of the spearhead are 1.9 mm thick. It weighs 16.5 g.



The spearhead fragment is a mid to dark brown with an uneven surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in a loss of some of the original surface detail.



A similar spearhead has been recorded on the PAS database as HESH-C348E5 and is considered to be Middle Bronze Age in dating (1500 BC to 1150 BC).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Rowley, East Riding of Yorkshire, East Riding of Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 77.9 mm
Thickness: 39.3 mm
Weight: 164 g
Description: An incomplete cast copper alloy ribbed socketed axe of Late Bronze Age date (1000 - 800 BC). The object can be classified as fitting into the Ewart Park phase of metalwork.



The axe is sub-rectangular in plan with the cutting edge expanding outwards. The cutting edge of the axe is missing and the break is patinated, though perhaps to a less extent than the rest of the axe. The broken edges are not worn. This break may be intentional and may indicate ritual deposition.



The socket has a sub square mouth (internal width 29.22mm, internal length 28mm, external width 40.5mm, external length 39.3mm and the wall of the mouth is 5 - 5.7mm thick). The socket is over 78mm deep and the insides are smooth. Four casting runners can be felt round the edeg of the mouth.



A moulded collar decorates the axe about 15mm below the mouth on each face. Extending down from this are three raised ribs on each of the two main faces, measuring 25mm - 30mm in length and about 2mm wide.



Along the centre of each side of the axe is a trimmed but raised casting seam. The seams have not been filed down. One side of the axe has a large semi-circular moulded side loop. The loop measures 10.5mm in width and 22mm in length. It is D-shaped in cross-section.



The axe has a mid green to dark grey patina and the surface is smooth. Overall, the axe is 77.9mm long, 42.4mm wide and 39.3mm thick. 164g.



The object can be classified as belonging to the Ewart park phase of metal work which corresponds with metalworking phases X - XII, or Needham Periods 6-7, dating from about 1150-750 CAL BC. This axe is likely to date from about 1000 - 800 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1300)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Purton, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 153 mm
Thickness: 28.7 mm
Weight: 398 g
Description: An unlooped copper alloy Middle Bronze Age palstave axe with a pronounced hollow below the stop ridge. About 40% of the original surface survives and is very pitted. Grinding marks are visible in a patch on the blade.



This is most likely to be a Primary Phase, Group I (unlooped), palstave with a shield-shaped depression below the stop ridge. The axe is of Middle Bronze Age date (1500 - 1300 BC) and is most probably associated with the Acton Park II and Taunton metalworking assemblages (Needham Period 5) - both assemblages fit within Burgess Metal Working Stage VIII and IX.



Unusually the side flanges (which are fused to the stop ridge) seem to extend below the stop ridge as raised side flanges. There is an argument that this form of axe develops from the long flange tradition. It is worth also noting that the blade expands evenly until the end where it flares to form a fan-shaped cutting edge.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Awl (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1250 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Childerley, South Cambridgeshire, Cambridgeshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 49 mm
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 5 g
Description: A copper-alloy awl, bronze age.The awl consists of a rod which tapers either side of the widest point, located at the centre. One half has a rectangular section and terminates in a wedge-shaped end. The other half has a rectangular section,with slightly rounded corners, and terminates in a point. The surface is corroded. Length 49mm, width 5mm, thickness 6mm, weight 5g. Similar to PUBLIC-68B945.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spear (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Shouldham, King's Lynn and West Norfolk, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 38.5 mm
Weight: 10.84 g
Description: Fragment of a Late Bronze Age copper alloy spearhead, part of a socket and one edge, with a longitudinal break and transverse breaks at both ends. None of the damage is recent. Some dark reduced clay from the casting process remains in the socket. Extant length 38.5mm. Weight 10.84g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.



Within 30m of grid reference
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy Iron
Found: Deopham, South Norfolk, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 17.3 mm
Weight: 5.37 g
Description: Small fragment of the mouth of a Late Bronze Age copper alloy socketed axehead. Extant length and width 17.3 and 18.5mm. Weight 5.37g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1000)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Folkton, Scarborough, North Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 48.3 mm
Thickness: 20.4 mm
Weight: 63.66 g
Description: Part of a copper alloy palstave or flanged axe dating from the Middle Bronze Age (about 1500 BC - 1000 BC). The remaining portion consists of part of the flanged end of the axe, from near the middle, broken at each end. The breaks are patinated. On the outside of one of the flanges is a small, blunt protrusion which is probably part of a side loop. There is no evidence of a stop on the surviving part. The axe has an even, dark green patina and the classic H shaped croiss-section. It is 48.3mm long, 33.3mm wide and 20.3mm thick. It weighs 64.66gm.



Other palstave fragments where the loop does not bridge the stop (so the loop is entirely on the hafted end of the axe) are IOW-DC7263 and the complete example DOR-8D4C40.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Dagger (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Boroughbridge, Harrogate, North Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 124.62 mm
Thickness: 7.68 mm
Weight: 71.2 g
Description: An incomplete copper alloy dagger of Bronze Age date (1500-800 BC). The object is composed of a tapering blade which is lenticular in section. The blade tapers to a broken point at it lower aspect and an integral rectangular shaft at its upper end. The tang and bade ends are missing due to old breaks. Both cutting edges are irregular and heavily abraded. There are no remnants of a hilt plate.



The metal is dark to light green with a heavily pitted and abraded patina.



Similar examples can be seen on the Portable Antiquities Database: Unique ID: WILT-B91985, Unique ID: LANCUM-3BEC10, Unique ID: CPAT-3A15F5
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Rocklands, Breckland, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 23 mm
Weight: 14.52 g
Description: Fragment of the mouth of a Late Bronze Age copper alloy socketed axehead. Extant length and width 23 and 34.5mm. Weight 14.52g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -1000)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Bixley, South Norfolk, Norfolk ()
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 45 mm
Thickness: 10 mm
Weight: 38.92 g
Description: Corroded and damaged fragment of Middle Bronze Age copper alloy palstave, butt end with damaged flanges and surface, iron-staining on granular but probably ancient break where body missing. Extant length 45mm. Width 22mm. Extant thickness 10mm. Weight 38.92g. c.1600 - c.1000 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Deopham, South Norfolk, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 26 mm
Thickness: 10 mm
Weight: 38.47 g
Description: Fragment of a Late Bronze Age copper alloy socketed axehead including the cutting edge and the distal end of the socket, in quite fresh condition. The break is not recent. Length 26mm. Width 50mm. Thickness 10mm. Weight 38.47g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.



Finders' number AA272
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spear (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Spernall, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 45.72 mm
Thickness: 8.14 mm
Weight: 8.2 g
Description: Middle or Late Bronze Age date (1500 - 800 BC) socketed spear (spearhead): The copper alloy spearhead consists of the upper portion of the spear, being broken just as the socket starts. In plan the spearhead is a sub-lozenge with abraded blade facets, thereby being misshapen. The tip is also abraded and missing. The spearhead fragment is broadly sub-triangular in plan and profile with a bi-convex shaped cross section. The lower portion of the spearhead has been lost and the break is too high to include the cast side loops. The break at the base of the spearhead includes the top of the socket which is circular. The break at this point is not recent. There are no visible areas of cast or incised decoration on the spearhead. The surface of the spearhead has traces of a dark brown patina, otherwise the surface is pitted and abraded. It measures 45.72mm long, 11mm wide, 8.14mm thick and weighs 8.2g.



It is likely that the style of this type of spearhead can be attributed to the Middle Bronze Age; specifically the second phase of Acton Park (2), Taunton (Cemmaes) or Pennard metalworking traditions. These phases correspond with Needham's Period 5 (c. 1500 - 1150 BC). However, many of the diagnostic characteristics (such as loops, peg holes and blade shape) have been lost and so a wider date range is suggested above.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Chisel (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Thixendale, Ryedale, North Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 88.5 mm
Thickness: 5.5 mm
Weight: 23.6 g
Description: A complete though worn copper alloy chisel or trunnion tool of middle Bronze Age date (1500 -1150 BC). The object is sub-rectangular in plan and section, tapering in width from cutting edge to butt. At the midpoint worn semi-circular lug like projections/trunnions extend to either side. The object is eroded by plough roll/abrasion.



The metal has a mid-green patina and is worn. The chisel is 88.5mm long, 12.9mm tapering to 3.8mm wide, 5.5mm tapering to 2.9mm thick and weighs 23.6g.



A similar example has been recorded as HESH-51B7E2 in which it states that such tools are dated to the metalworking tradition phase VIII - IX, which corresponds to Needham's (1996) Period 5 circa 1500-1150 CAL. BC. This record also cites a number of published examples such as from Yattendon Berks (Evans 1881: p169 Fig. 196) and Harbledon, Kent (Rowlands 1976 cat no 1108 p 351/pl36). The latter reference also suggests the date range for these as being from the early Middle Bronze Age with a peak in the Middle Bronze Age with a few examples turning up within assemblages of late Bronze Age date (ibid p44). A distinct pattern of distribution is suggested in the West and in Ireland (ibid) with examples of these being discovered in Shropshire, Cheshire and Wrexham, specifically within the Meole Brace (Edgebold Brickyard) Hoard (Rowlands 1976 after Chitty 1925) and Broxton Cheshire (Evans 1881; 169) and now the Burton Hoard PAS-5B1745. All these examples are associated with either spearheads or palstaves reinforcing a Middle Bronze Age dating probably associated with Acton Park II or Taunton traditions / assemblages.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2350 to -801)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Brooke, Rutland, Rutland (East Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 54 mm
Thickness: 10 mm
Weight: 39.39 g
Description: Bronze age copper-alloy axe fragment,  Length 54mm, width 25mm, thickness 10mm, weight 39.39grams. The object is sub rectangular in form and section and represents the curved blade of the axe, with flared outer edges. The broken edge is solid, but is too close to the blades edge to determine what sort of axe it is from.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spear (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to 0)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Belton, North West Leicestershire, Leicestershire (East Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 65 mm
Thickness: 11 mm
Weight: 22.16 g
Description: Bronze age copper alloy spearhead, 65mm long, 18mm wide and 11mm thick, with a weight of 22.16grams. The object represenst the upper part of a mid rib of a spearhead which is extremely worn. It consists of a circular cross-sectioned hollow, tapering tube with the remains of the flat spearhead blade projecting out from two sides.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axe (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -700)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: West Meon, Winchester, Hampshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 20.58 mm
Weight: 1.99 g
Description: 
A small fragment of the edge of the blade of a palstave or socketed axe of Bronze Age date.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Blade (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2350 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Hooton Levitt, Rotherham, Rotherham (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 27.7 mm
Thickness: 2.3 mm
Weight: 3.81 g
Description: A copper alloy fragment of a Bronze Age blade, probably from a dagger or rapier and dating from 2350 BC - 800 BC. The fragment is probably from near the tip of the implement, as is it thin and narrow. It is surb-rectangular, broken at both ends and with damage and chips to each side. It is a very thin pointed oval in cross-section. The surface is grey green and extensively pitted. It measures 27.7mm long, 15.5mm wide and 2.3mm thick. 3.81g.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Awl (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-1000 to -500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Amesbury, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 67.83 mm
Weight: 3.69 g
Description: 
A Bronze Age to Iron Age awl. The awl has one chisel end which expands into a square section and terminates in a circular-sectioned point. The awl is in fine condition.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -801)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Patching, Arun, West Sussex (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 38.5 mm
Weight: 34.54 g
Description: A fragment of a cast copper-alloy socketed axehead probably dating the Late Bronze Age, c. 1000-801 BC. The fragment consists of most of the blade-end of the axehead, which is socketed to approximately 21 mm deep within the fragment. Most of the surface of the axehead has worn away from severe surface abrasion with only small areas of the outer surface remaining; all remaining outer surfaces are medium-green in colour and patina. The interior colouration of the metal is of a lighter green colour and powdery in texture. The fragment measures 38.5 mm long, 31.21 mm wide (at blade-end), 23.11 mm wide (at broken end), 3.35 mm thick (blade-end), 16.71 mm thick (at broke end) ; it weighs 34.54 grams.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Hoard (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE ( to )
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Awliscombe, East Devon, Devon (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Description: 1. Copper alloy blade fragment; the fragment is broadly rectangular in plan with a lenticular section. The straight sides are abraded. One broken edge is vertical; the other break is roughly diagonal. Overall the surface has a smooth dark green patina, which has worn away in places revealing a paler green colour underneath. Length: 53mm; Width: 31mm; Thickness: 7mm.



2. Copper alloy blade fragment; the fragment is broadly rectangular in plan with a lenticular section. The sides are abraded. Both broken edges are vertical. Overall the surface has a smooth dark green patina, which has worn away in places revealing a paler green colour underneath. Length: 54mm; Width: 29mm; Thickness: 7mm.



3. Copper alloy blade tip fragment; the fragment is broadly triangular in plan with a lenticular section. The tapering sides are abraded. Both broken edges are vertical. Whilst still visible in some patches, the smooth dark green patina has mainly worn away revealing a paler green colour underneath. Length: 54mm; Width (at wide end): 27mm; Width (at tip end); 17mm; Thickness: 6mm.



Discussion:



The three fragments are likely to be from the same sword. Certainly the broken edges of fragments 1 and 2 re-fit together, and all three fragments are in a similar condition and are fragmented to a similar size. There are no casting flaws visible in the breaks, nor deliberate signs of bending often seen in ceremonial use. The sword is likely to have been broken deliberately as it is unlikely to have broken into uniform fragments through use. Overall the sword was probably broken up as part of the reduction process for recycling (pers comm, M Knight, November 2015).
Notes: It is probable that these objects formed a single original deposit. This material is eligible as Treasure under the new Treasure Order (2002) being a base-metal prehistoric find containing two or more metal objects.



Danielle Wootton



Devon Finds Liaison Officer
Subsequent action: Acquired by museum after being declared Treasure
Object: Flanged Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1700 to -1500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Wymondham, South Norfolk, Norfolk ()
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 99 mm
Thickness: 12 mm
Weight: 138.3 g
Description: Early Bronze Age Flanged axe, straight sides slightly convex in section, sub-rectangular heel, blade expanding towards damaged crescentic cutting edge, original edge missing, cast flanges, slight transverse bevel ridge on both faces at junction of hafting surface and blade. Heavily corroded with much of the surface missing at both ends and pitting and blistering occurring over all surfaces. Length 99mm. Surviving width at blade 45mm. Thickness at mid-point of flange 12mm. Weight 138.30g. Cast flanged axes belong to the later part of the Early Bronze Age. c.1700 - c.1500 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-900 to -700)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Brockham, Mole Valley, Surrey (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 30.67 mm
Weight: 11.48 g
Description: 
A fragment comprising the rim and side of a Late Bronze Age copper alloy socketed axe. The fragment retains the stubs of the loop and has an internal groove at the casting join.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Rapier (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1400 to -1200)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Shipmeadow, Waveney, Suffolk ()
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 128 mm
Thickness: 5 mm
Weight: 56.73 g
Description: Incomplete Middle Bronze Age copper alloy rapier or dirk with rounded butt, two broken rivet-holes in the hafting-plate (extant width 34mm), blade with slight bend at mid-point, flat median rib, corroded and pitted with damaged edges and rounded point. Length 128mm. Blade 5mm thick. Weight 56.73g. 1400-1200 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axe (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE ( to )
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Penllyn, the Vale of Glamorgan, the Vale of Glamorgan (Wales)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 30.4 mm
Height: 12.8 mm
Thickness: 8.1 mm
Weight: 28.3 g
Description: Bronze Age bronze butt fragment from an axe of uncertain type but of Developed Axe or Palstave form

The axe is represented by a butt fragment only, broken at one end (with a surviving length of 30.4mm and a weight of 28.3g). The butt end is damaged and jagged but may have been rounded and thins to the edge (with a width of 20mm and a thickness of 1.8mm). The sides are near-straight and divergent for their short lengths to the break (with a maximum width of 27.7mm and a thickness across the septum of 8.1mm). The sides are rounded and convex across their thicknesses, with the suggestion of a casting seam on the heavily-corroded and pitted surface. The flanges begin just below the butt and are have a linear divergent edge (giving the axe a maximum surviving depth of 12.8mm with a maximum height above the septum of 2.5mm). The break occurred in antiquity. The surface has a bright and green corrosion.



The fragmentary nature of the axe makes typological identification difficult. The butt form would be consistent with slender-butted Developed flat axes, From Type Aylesford (Schmidt & Burgess, 1981) from the Early Bronze Age through to Late Palstaves, of Ewart Park Metalworking in the Late Bronze Age.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -1001)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Honingham, Broadland, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 26 mm
Thickness: 9.8 mm
Weight: 21.73 g
Description: Butt end of a Middle Bronze Age copper alloy palstave. The break is old and there is ancient and recent scuffing. Extant length, width and thickness 26, 20.5 and 9.8mm. Weight 21.73g. c.1600 - c.1000 BC.



Field HON1
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Pin (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Broughton, Test Valley, Hampshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 74 mm
Thickness: 3.2 mm
Weight: 3.87 g
Description: A complete example of a Late Bronze Age roll-headed pin, c1000-800 BC. The pin has a tightly-coiled head where the wire has a rectangular section. The head merges into a round-section shaft. There are similar examples from Heathery Burn Cave; Ivinghoe Beacon; Merlin's Cave, Symond's Yat; Potterne, Wilts; Runnymede, Surrey; and Flag Fen, Cambs. One was also found during excavations at Llanmaes, Vale of Glamorgan, associated with a Late Bronze Age C14 date.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Unidentified Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 49.18 mm
Weight: 8.8 g
Description: 
An unidentifed copper-alloy object of probable early Iron Age or perhaps late Bronze Age date and of uncertain original extent. The object comprises a short arc which merges into a straight section, with a swelling where the two lengths join. The lower side of the swelling and the two present terminals all have pronounced hollows each of which is orientated along the length of the object. Both terminals expand. The curving length appears plain but is corroded and is possibly decorated with a line of dots. The straight length is decorated on three sides with a band of repeating punched linear curving indentations. The central swelling is decorated on one side with cast raised concentric circles; the opposite side is plain and flat. A short ridge on the inner face of this swelling separates it from the curved end.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spear (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-900 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 32.39 mm
Thickness: 6.49 mm
Weight: 9.02 g
Description: 
The tip of a copper-alloy spearhead of probable late Bronze Age date. The tip is rounded in section and thins rapidly to blades which remain sharp.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axe (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 30.2 mm
Thickness: 10.15 mm
Weight: 16.93 g
Description: A poorly cast late Bronze Age or early Iron Age copper alloy miniature socketed axe, 30.20mm long, with a prominent loop handle. The axe retains fired clay in its socket.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axe (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 23.11 mm
Thickness: 8.47 mm
Weight: 10.02 g
Description: A poorly cast copper-alloy minature late Bronze Age to early Iron Age socketed axe, 23.11mm long. The axe has an empty socket and the loop handle is not open. There appears to be a casting runner on the blade end
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Miniature Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 17.47 mm
Thickness: 5.62 mm
Weight: 5.45 g
Description: A poorly cast copper alloy miniature late Bronze Age or early Iron Age socketed axe, 17.47mm long. The axe has a filled socket.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Metal Working Debris (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 15.99 mm
Thickness: 2.87 mm
Weight: 1.45 g
Description: 
A fragment of possible Bronze Age or early Iron Age copper-alloy metal working debris.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Metal Working Debris (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-800 to -600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Whitchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 10.06 mm
Weight: 1.22 g
Description: 
A fragment of possible Bronze Age or early Iron Age copper alloy metal working debris.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Awl (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -701)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Great Ellingham, Breckland, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 45.9 mm
Weight: 8.47 g
Description: Incomplete Late Bronze Age copper alloy awl, part of the tapering, square-sectioned tang missing. The point starts with an octagonal cross-section which soons becomes round. The point remains quite sharp. Extant length 45.9mm. Width 8.8mm. Weight 8.47g. c.1000 - c.700 BC.



Field SC
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -1000)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Chaddesley Corbett, Wyre Forest, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 26 mm
Thickness: 7.8 mm
Weight: 23.7 g
Description: An incomplete copper alloy palstave fragment of the Middle Bronze Age, dating c. BC 1600  to c.BC 1000.



Around 25% of the palstave is present, consisting of the butt of the axe. The fragment is broadly trapezoidal in plan with a broadly H shaped cross section. Both front and reverse faces are concave which denote the beginnings of the raised flanges, which taper out towards the break. No traces of decoration are visible. Both the front and reverse faces show signs of wear and there are areas of the patina missing. The break appears to be patinated suggesting object was broken in antiquity. 



The fragment measures 26.0 mm in length and is 24.7 mm wide (at the break) and 22.5 mm (at the butt end). It has a thickness of 7.8 mm (at the break) and 4.9 mm (at the butt end). It weighs 23.7 g. 



The fragment is a mid to dark green in colour, with the front face being dark green and the reverse is mid green, with an uneven patina. Abrasion caused by movement whilst within the plough soil has resulted in the loss of some of the original surface detail, and damage to the remaining patina.



Due to the fragmentary nature of the object it is difficult to assign type. However the fragment does appear indicative of a Palstave axe rather than a developed axe. Other examples of Palstave fragments of this type have been recorded on the database WILT-A17D02, SUSS-4AE576 and WMID-EBF4D9.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Ingot (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -700)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Checkendon, South Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 69.8 mm
Thickness: 39.59 mm
Weight: 368 g
Description: An approximately five-sided, copper-alloy ingot weighing 368g. The ingot is of uncertain, but possibly Bronze Age, date.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Flat Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2350 to -1600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Charing, Ashford, Kent (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 22 mm
Weight: 14.5 g
Description: A fragment of an Early Bronze Age copper alloy flat axe, dating to c. 2350 - 1600 BC.BC. The fragment consists of a narrow blade with a relatively straight cutting edge which is slightly flared at the edges. The blade appears to have the indication of low straight flanges along the outer edges. The fragment terminates in an old break. There is no decoration on the blade.



It is 22 mm long and the widest part of the cutting edge is also 22 mm. The narrow end is 16 mm wide. It weighs 14.5 gms.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder