dejp3/bronze-age-objects-pas huggingface dataset:
Object: Bead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1100)
Material: Gold 
Found: Overton, Basingstoke and Deane, Hampshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Diameter: 8.4 mm
Thickness: 6.3 mm
Weight: 1.88 g
Description: A gold biconical bead of 8.4mm diameter, with slightly dished, concave faces and a central hole 2.5mm in diameter. The inner surface of the hole is rough and there is a visible casting flaw within the interior. The solidity of the bead and the rough cylindrical interior of the central hole suggests that the method of manufacture was casting rather than construction from sheet metal.



Diameter: 8.4mm, thickness / height: 6.3mm, weight: 1.88g.
Notes: This bead is likely to date to the Middle Bronze Age (c.1500-1100 BC) based on comparanda from the database (NMS-AEC678 (2013T20), HAMP-72E451 (2011T526), PAS-65902F (2015T175) and GLO-46CA05 (2014T358)) and various other excavated examples from stratified contexts (as quoted in these PAS records). Such Middle Bronze Age gold beads are a relatively rare find (Murgia et al.) and can be contextualised with reference to the so-called 'ornament horizon(s)', which see a proliferation of bronze and gold ornaments in Southern England and Britain (respectively) during the period c.1400-1100 BC (Roberts, 2007).



Conclusion: The object contains more than 10% precious metal and is of prehistoric date. Consequently, it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996 and the 2002 Treasure Designation Order, in terms of both age and precious metal content.
Subsequent action: Acquired by museum after being declared Treasure
Object: Brooch (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1100 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Badsey, Wychavon, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 99.3 mm
Height: 26.2 mm
Weight: 30.31 g
Description: Brooch of Central European, Bronze Age, type, c.1100-800 BC. It is made from a single length of 2.7mm diameter, copper alloy wire, one end of which is a tightly wound to form a six turn spiral. From this the wire is bent back on itself to form a hook-like catch plate. The wire is twisted back and forth to form five, figure of 8 loops on the end of which is an integral pin. The wire is cracked at this point. The brooch is in excellent condition with a mid-brown patination which contains some grains of sand. Length 99.3mm, Width 41.7mm, Height 26.2mm, Mass 30.31g.



This brooch is of Central European type and can be closely paralleled by two examples found in a hoard of gold jewellery on the bank of the Danube between Duna-Földvár and Paks in Hungary. This was dated to the 11th to 9th century BC (Hugh Tait, 7000 years of Jewellery, The British Museum, 2006, 51, plate 108). A further parallel is provided by an example in Merseyside Museums which is provenance as 'Northern Hungary' (Susan Nicholson, Catalogue of the Prehistoric Metalwork in the Merseyside County Museums, Merseyside County Council, Liverpool,, 1980, 70, No. 141.



While it is not impossible for this object to have found its way to England in antiquity its condition, and the fact that it was a surface find, suggest that it may be a recent import, perhaps coming from a European collection during the Second World War and, its significance unrecognised, subsequently lost.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Button (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to ROMAN (-800 to 400)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Badsey, Wychavon, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Diameter: 22.6 mm
Thickness: 2.9 mm
Weight: 4.79 g
Description: Two copper alloy discs, both roughly made, plain but with a low, flat, central boss. On the back of each of the discs are two lugs, both perforated for an attachment pin. These are linked by two, small ribs. Disc A: Diameter 22.6mm, 2.9mm thick, Mass 4.79g. Disc B: Diameter 20.6mm, Thickness 2.9mm, Mass 4.36g. These object are difficult to date but may be related to the 'double looped' buttons that occur in the Bronze Age although the holes through the loops appear, at 2.0mm to be unusually small. A wide date range must be proposed.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Sickle (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1200 to -700)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Badsey, Wychavon, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 34.6 mm
Thickness: 4.6 mm
Weight: 13.14 g
Description: Fragment of a Bronze Age sickle. This consist of part of a blade, one edge of which is slightly incurved, suggesting that it represents a sickle rather than a sword or rapier. The fragement has a flat lozenge shaped section with indications of two arrises down each of its faces. Length 34.6mm, Width 22.3, Thickness 4.6mm, Mass 13.14mm, Bronze Age, c. 1200-700BC
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Knife (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-950 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Badsey, Wychavon, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 32.8 mm
Thickness: 7.6 mm
Weight: 10.88 g
Description: Fragment of a Late Bronze Age, double edged, knife of 'Thorndon' type. All that survives is the end of the socket and the start of the blade which has a flattened lozenge section. The junction between the blade and the flattened oval socket is marked by a transverse step. Length 32.8mm, Width 19.6mm, Thickness 7.6mm, Mass 10.88g. This fragment can be compared to the complete Thorndon knife from North Somerset, GLO-B2DAA9. The type is dated to 950-750BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axe (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -801)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Knapwell, South Cambridgeshire, Cambridgeshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 27 mm
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 3.14 g
Description: Bronze age copper alloy axe blade fragment,  27mm in length, 14mm wide and 6mm thick with a weight of 3.14g.



The object is sub triangular in form and cross section and consists of a corner of a blade of a probable socketed axe. It has a slightly curved and damaged blade, 1mm thick at its tip. The fragment then widens out and is solid, but in a very damaged state. It was found in the same location as other prehistoric metal fragments (see LEIC-544574 and LEIC-54F15A) suggesting it may have been gathered for re-working?
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Unidentified Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2350 to -801)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Knapwell, South Cambridgeshire, Cambridgeshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 15 mm
Thickness: 4 mm
Weight: 3.07 g
Description: Prehistoric copper alloy object fragment? 15mm in length, 13mm wide and 4mm thick with a weight of 3.07grams. The object is sub rectangular in form and rectangular (rhomboid) in cross section, with each face having a rounded central ridge. The object has a tri-lobed form with three incomplete shafts, one of which is slightly longer,  all are broken off. The patina suggests a great age, but function is uncertain.



It was found in the same location as two prehistoric metal fragments,  (see LEIC-544574 and LEIC-542023) suggesting it may be this old and could have been gathered for re-working?
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Unidentified Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-1500 to -300)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Wendover, Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Height: 19.95 mm
Thickness: 12.66 mm
Weight: 21.2 g
Description: An incomplete copper alloy "Moustache-shaped" object probably of Middle Bronze Age to Middle Iron Age date (1500-300 BC). The object consists of two pointed drop-shaped elements (one point is lost due to abrasion), D-shaped in cross-section and joined at their widest point, by a longitudinally recessed oval neck. There are multiple longitudinal grooves on the upper face on both domed sides of the object, the tapering lower parts are plain. The two moustache tips or prongs flare slightly outwards and the retained point terminates in a narrow point. The central neck section of the object is plain and undecorated but the underside (between the two prongs) has a sub-circular perforation, believed to facilitate the attachment of the object.





The metal has a dark green smooth patina with some areas of light green corrosion.





Height: 19.95mm, Width: 43.91mm, Thickness: 12.66mm, Weight: 21.2g
Notes: These moustache-like objects are thought to date from the Middle Bronze Age to the Late Iron Age, after the discovery of one in the Salisbury Hoard (Stead, 1998, no.117).



Some are 'single' examples while others are 'double' like this example, the drop-shaped elements often extending downwards rather more than outwards, for example YORYM-1AA0C5, SF-520513, HAMP-6F4C45, BERK-C3E5A3 and BH-AA1CBE.

The open area at the centre of the object suggests it was meant to top something that fitted into this gap. Descriptions of other moustache-like objects with similar perforations describe iron corrosion or wood mineralisation around the perforation. Although very similar to wing-shaped chapes, it seems unlikely they had a similar function, as the perforation (and size of the object) is comparably small.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Sickle (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Gussage St. Michael, East Dorset, Dorset (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 20.3 mm
Thickness: 2.1 mm
Weight: 1.83 g
Description: A fragment of a Middle to Late Bronze Age copper alloy sickle, probably dating to c. 1500-800 BC. The fragment consists of a sub-triangular, curving fragment of blade, with a central mid-rib tapering into the edges in cross section. The fragment is truncated by an old break, with all edges being abraded. 



Length: 20.3mm; width: 15.6mm; thickness: 2.1mm; weight: 1.83g.



cf. a similar, but more complete sickle found at Edington Burtle (Pearce 1983: 512-513, no. 648). The fragment is too incomplete to be further classified.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Flanged Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1700 to -1500)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Filby, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 134.5 mm
Thickness: 23.6 mm
Weight: 518 g
Description: Early - Middle Bronze Age copper alloy flanged axehead dating to the period c. 1700 - 1500 BC. It exhibits a narrow butt (31mm in width, 9.7mm in thickness). The body is slender and expands along its length to a width of 51.7mm. The sides exhibit high, inward-curved flanges forming a lenticular profile (maximum thickness 23.6mm, tapering to 12.1mm at the top of the blade). Most of the surface is now heavily corroded and pitted. 



The blade expands obliquely from either side of the axehead at the point the flanges terminate, forming a crescentic cutting edge (width: 83mm). This has been somewhat abraded and is now obscured by corrosion product.



It has a low bevel or ridge about halfway down the septum (c.39mm from the butt), which indicates the beginnings of stop ridge technology as is seen on later flanged axes and palstaves. This is clearer on the better preserved face of the axehead.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2000 to -1100)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Ludgershall, Wiltshire, Wiltshire ()
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 19.4 mm
Height: 8.3 mm
Weight: 12.23 g
Description: A fragment of a middle Bronze Age copper alloy flanged or palstave axehead, comprising a 19.4mm long section of the butt end. The fragment is flat in profile, with the tapering ends of parallel ridges along each side. The butt end tapers and the end is asymetrical from wear. The break is patinated and looks ancient.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, Vale of White Horse, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 51.3 mm
Weight: 27.4 g
Description: A fragment of a Middle to Late Bronze Age copper-alloy socketed leaf-shaped spearhead (c. 1600 BC-c. 800 BC). The fragment has a rounded socket through the wings, which are incomplete, worn and damaged. Patches of bronze disease is evident.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1550 to -1250)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Sandford-on-Thames, South Oxfordshire, Oxfordshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 155.8 mm
Diameter: 18.9 mm
Thickness: 14.9 mm
Weight: 125.2 g
Description: A complete cast copper alloy socketed and side looped spearhead dating to the Middle Bronze Age date (c. 1550-1250 BC). The spearhead has a short but slender kite-shaped blade with rounded shoulders. The edges are bevelled but are now damaged and blunt. The socket is circular and tapers from the open mouth into the shaft between the blade's wings. There are two lozenge-shaped drilled 'loops' located between the socket mouth and the blade. Both of the spear wings have corrosion adhering to them, one side more so than the other. This is strongly indicative of deposition in a watery or saturated context. Slithers of what appears to be carbonised wood is visible in the socket.



The spear is 155.8mm long, 40.9mm wide, the blade is 14.9mm thick, the socket has a diameter of 18.9mm. The spear weighs 125.2 grams.



Side-looped spearheads are Greenwell and Brewis'  (1909) Class IV which they date to the early Middle Bronze Age. Davis (2012) has recently provided a more thorough typology of Bronze Age spearheads in Britain in which he dates side looped forms to The Acton Park Phase (1550-1400 cal BC) (Davis 2012: 108) with the suggestion that in some areas this use may be extended slightly into the Taunton Phase (Davis 2012: 108) (1400-1250 cal BC) their exact position in these periods being dependent on the form of the blade. This spear blade most closely fits his Class 6b (Davis 2012: 82) including Nos.309, 311 and 313..





This portion of the spear being missing a date of c. 1550 to 1400 cal BC is most appropriate (following Needham et al. 1997).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Blade (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-800 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: West Knoyle, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 15.7 mm
Diameter: 21.3 mm
Thickness: 2.2 mm
Weight: 1.71 g
Description: A copper alloy fragment, possibly from a Bronze Age blade such as a rapier or dirk.



The fragment is trapezoidal in plan and broken on two edges. At the wider end, the item's width is 14.4mm From this end the original surviving edges of the item subtly curve outwards before curving in again to the second broken edge of the item which is also the point of its minimum width, 9.3mm. This broken end is now slightly concave. In cross section the artefact is a pointed oval with a maximum thickness of 2.2mm and, one one face, distinct carinations between the central part, representing about a third of the width and the edges. It has no clearly defined mid-rib or edge bevels.



The object is covered in a thick dark green patina which is only slightly abraded in places.



It is, 15.7mm long, and weighs 1.71



The regular form of the fragment and its size suggest this possibly represent a fragment of a Bronze Age tool, such as a rapier or knife, an example with similar dimensions albeit far better preserved is SOM-71AABB.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-950 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Nuthampstead, North Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 73.5 mm
Height: 29.9 mm
Thickness: 3.9 mm
Weight: 147.3 g
Description: An incomplete cast copper-alloy ribbed socketed axe head dating to the later Bronze Age (c. 950-750 BC). The surviving axe consists of part of the broken body and blade, with missing loop and collar. The body of the axe is sub-rectangular in plan with a flared convex cutting edge. The cast longitudinal moulding consisting of four parallel ribs extends partially along both the front and rear faces, terminating at what would approximately have been the mid-point of each face. The moulding is incomplete where the axe is broken, and very worn on one side. The sides of the axe are lentoidal in plan and the trimmed central longitudinal casting seams are clearly visible. The body of the axe narrows towards the expanded blade. The blade edge is rounded and damaged in several areas through abrasion and corrosion and is missing one tip. The inside of the axe is hollow and sub-rectangular in cross-section and contains small traces of depositional residual on the interior surfaces. As well as being unevenly broken at one end, the axe also has several areas of lamination and scratches on its outside surfaces, all of which are patinated, like all of the exterior surfaces, in a mid-green colour. The interior surfaces of the axe have a similar coloured patina with additional patches of brown.



The axe measures 73.5mm in length, 39.6mm in width and 3.8mm thick at the blade, 29.2mm in width and 28.8mm thick at the broken socketed end, 3.9mm in maximum wall thickness, and weighs 147.30 grams.



The axehead is comparable to the Ewart Park phase of the Late Bronze Age, c.950-750 BC.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Rapier (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1400)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Coniston Cold, Craven, North Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 93.2 mm
Thickness: 2.4 mm
Weight: 35.68 g
Description: A copper alloy incomplete rapier or dirk of Middle Bronze Age date, from the Arreton or Acton Park I phases, about 1500 -1400 BC. It is probably a Group II blade of Taplow Type.



The blade has a trapezoidal hilt with the surviving shoulder rounded and containing a single rivet hole. The other shoulder is missing, with an old patinated break across its rivet hole. The top edge is slightly concave between the shoulders, but this is probably owing to damage. The blade narrows from the shoulders to the break, the edges being slightly concave. The blade is elliptical in cross-section, with a slightly thicker centre, but no central rib or any decoration on the blade. The tip of the blade is missing, with an old break running across it at a slight diagonal. It is not possible to estimate the original length of the rapier or dirk. The blade has a mottled green and brown patina on both sides. It is 93.2mm long, 41.4mm wide and 2.4mm thick. It weighs 35.68g.



Taplow Type dirks (less than 30cm long) and rapiers often have four rivet holes (unlike this example), and rounded shoulders as this one does. Some have very flat blades, like this one, and many of the blades are plain (Burgess and Gerloff, Dirks and Rapiers of Great Britain cited by Dr Dot Boughton, pers comm 28th March 2019). Though there is a concentration of Taplow type rapiers and dirks in the Thames area and in Cambridgeshire, they are known from across England.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Awl (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1150 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Harting, Chichester, West Sussex (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 68.9 mm
Thickness: 3.3 mm
Weight: 5.34 g
Description: A (probably later) Bronze Age (c.1150-800 BC) copper alloy probable awl, with a flattish cross-section along its entire length. It is slightly bent or kinked at the centre, where it measures 5.5x3.3mm and is an elongated oval in cross-section. It narrows and thins to the tanged end, where it measures 4.7x1.9mm and has a rectangular cross-section.It narrows to a worn flattish point at the other end, 1.9x1.5mm and oval in cross-section.

The patina is a dark green in colour with some light pitting and some areas of larger surface loss. The awl measures 68.9mm in length, 5.5mm in max.width, 3.3mm in max.thickness and weighs 5.34g.
Notes: 
The form of the awl does not change much through time and similar objects are also noted in the Roman period and possibly later.

Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Gouge (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Hilmarton, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 70 mm
Thickness: 2.9 mm
Weight: 44.7 g
Description: A Bronze Age copper alloy gouge dating to 1500-800 BC, Middle to Late Bronze Age. The chisel is sub rectangular in plan, tapering slightly into the cutting edge and is circular in cross section, becoming crescentic towards the cutting edge. The opposite end is socketed with a circular mouth and an expanded collar on the outside. A prominent longitudinal casting seam is extant on either lateral edge. The chisel has signs of pitting damage in places.



Length: 70.0mm; length of blade: 31.30mm; width: 16.0mm; internal aperture of socketed end: 14.0mm; thickness: 2.90mm; weight: 44.70g.



Similar examples of socketed chisels are illustrated in the Archaeological Journal Vol VI (1849), page 382, found at Westow, Yorkshire, and in the Archaeological Journal IX (1852), pages 302-3, found at Romford, Essex. Evans (1881) also describes other socketed chisels found at Heathery Burn Cave, Durham; Roseberry Topping, Yorkshire; Meldreth, Cambridgeshire, as well as examples from France, Switzerland and Italy. Similar examples on the PAS database include: GLO-3435C7; WMID-E1B777; WMID-E1B777;
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Casting Waste (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to MODERN (-2350 to 2000)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Wendover, Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 127.2 mm
Thickness: 29.2 mm
Weight: 844 g
Description: A fragment of copper alloy casting waste of unknown date, from Bronze Age to modern period. The fragment is sub triangular in shape, and rectangular in cross section. The fragment consists of layers of copper alloy that have been fused together, and there are air bubbles and circular indentatons throughout from manufacture. It has a dark green patina with patches of light green. It measures 127.16mm in length, 65.16mm in width, 29.2mm in thickness and weighs 844g.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Redbourn, St. Albans, Hertfordshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 64.2 mm
Diameter: 11.6 mm
Thickness: 2 mm
Weight: 32.41 g
Description: An incomplete cast copper-alloy socketed spearhead dating to the Middle Bronze Age (c. 1500 to 1150 BC). The spearhead has a leaf shaped, lozenge-sectioned blade with a raised rounded mid-rib ridge extending to the tip that has areas of worn damage either side. The tip of the blade is broken and the edges are worn. The socket is also broken, the surviving hollow part being circular in section. The entire object has a dark green patina. The spearhead measures 64.2mm in length, a maximum of 25mm in width and a maximum of 11.6mm diameter at the socketed end. The blade is 2mm thick. The spearhead weighs 32.41 grams.



The spearhead appears to be part of the Acton Park (2), Taunton (Cemmaes) or Pennard metalworking tradition, phases that correspond with Needham's Period 5 (c. 1500-1150 BC).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Harness Fitting (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Shrewton, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Diameter: 8.2 mm
Thickness: 4.8 mm
Weight: 10.28 g
Description: An artefact often grouped under the term of harness fittings of Late Bronze Age date, and probably of Ewart Park (c. 950 - 750 BC) or Llyn Fawr (c. 750 - 500BC) metalworking tradition.



In plan the artefact is slightly oval measuring 23.0mm by 20.3mm in diameter. Placed at the centre of the object on each side mirroring each other are two circular concave depressions measuring 8.2mm in diameter that are each approximately 1.5mm deep. However, the object is 4.8mm thick such that these depressions do not pierce through from one side to the other.



The artefact has a terminal knop projecting 6.2mm from the wider side of this item. This knop is pierced by a hole c.4mm in diameter. In cross section the knop is rectangular, however, the majority of the object, barring the concave depressions, is a pointed oval in cross section.



The object appears to be solid and has a light green patina and shows a little abrasion.



From the knop to its far end the artefact measure 26.8mm long, it is 4.8mm thick and it weighs10.28g.



If the concave depressions were pierced through the the object would be very similar in form to items found from a hoard at Parc-Y-Meirch, known as the Dinorben hoard (Savory 1980, 187). These are seen as the inner pieces of composite strap fittings. The Dinorben hoard is dated to c.9th century BC (ibid, 59) a time within the Late Bronze Age (c. 1150 - 800 cal BC). Similar items on the database such as LIN-34D2A3, NMGW-A0EC15 have also been dated to this period although there are now suggestions that these should be placed in the Iron Age (see CAM-6A8D1B, WAW-03C3E2)
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1400 to -1125)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Brickendon Liberty, East Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 153.2 mm
Diameter: 20 mm
Thickness: 2 mm
Weight: 104.69 g
Description: An near complete cast copper-alloy basal-looped spearhead dating to the Middle Bronze Age (c. 1400 to 1125 BC). The spearhead has a leaf shaped, lozenge-sectioned blade with a raised rounded mid-rib ridge extending to the tip of the blade. There are two sub-circular/rectangular loops incorporated into the base of the blade, one either side of the central rib. The mid-rib extends and expands to form the hollow circular-sectioned socket. Both edges of the blade are abraded. The base of the socket is compressed and damaged, and there is deposition residue inside the hollow cavity. The spearhead measures 153.2mm in length, 31mm in maximum width and a maximum of 20mm diameter at the socketed end. The blade is 2mm thick. The spearhead weighs 104.69 grams.



This is an example of a Group 8 Middle Bronze Age spearhead as defined by Davis (2017), with characteristic incorporated basal loops, and are associated with the Taunton and Penard phases (1400-1125 BC).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Socketed Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1400 to -1150)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Otterton, East Devon, Devon (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 121.55 mm
Thickness: 30.5 mm
Weight: 185.78 g
Description: A complete copper alloy socketed axehead dating to the Middle Bronze Age and the Taunton/Penard phase (c.1400-1150 BC).



The socket end is square in shape, measuring 30.4mm by 30.5mm. All four internal surfaces are intact and in good condition. On the upper and lower surface there is a raised casting flash, following a seam along the length of the object. On all four sides a raised pattern of three lines wraps around the object, taking up the space between the end and the small, shallow handle. The internal space is a condensed circle measuring 7.1mm in diameter, while the handle surface itself is tapered, from a narrow triangle at the proximal end to a wide flare at the distal end. The object itself narrows from 30.5mm to 21.8mm in width, before flaring sharply to a small, neat blade that measures 27.8mm across and is 3.1mm thick at the cutting edge. The blade is a convex curve.



The surface is covered with a mid-green patina with large areas of a darker corrosion. There is one patch where this darker corrosion has caused deeper damage to the metal, approximately 3/4 of the way down the shaft, where there is also a sharper linear nick in the surface.



Similar examples include SOM-AE4024, the record for which records that Taunton-Hademarschen axes were previously thought to date to the Ewart Park phase (1000-800BC) but the finding of an example on the Isle of Wight in a hoard of Taunton phase palstaves (Treasure Annual Reoprt 2003, p. 197), confirming the Middle Bronze Age date and distribution suggesting a date of 1400 to 1150 BC. These characteristically long thin axes are relatively rare but other examples are known from Somerset including from Norton Fitzwarren (see Needham et al, Archaeological Journal 154, 1997, 87, fig 18,5 and the corroded example from Norton Fitzwarren Needham, Somerset Archaeology & Natural History 133, 1989, 37-8, fig 17,11). There are also examples from Wiltshire recorded on the database (WILT-C4C954).
Notes: A number of examples of this type of axehead have been found associated with watery contexts suggesting structured deposition, however this example notably comes from a coastal area within 500m of a cliff edge.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Unidentified Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Gold 
Found: Brayton, Selby, North Yorkshire (Yorkshire and the Humber)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 10.4 mm
Thickness: 0.3 mm
Weight: 0.4 g
Description: TREASURE CASE : 2019 T274.



Description: 



A decorated sheet of gold of probable Bronze Age date, c.1000 - 800 BC.



The object is formed of a thin sub-rectangular sheet of gold, folded over at one end. It is not possible to determine if the object is complete or cut down though the latter is likely. The front surface of the sheet is decorated by a series of sub-parallel indented grooves running along its length.



Dimensions:



Length: 10.4mm; Width: 9.6mm; Thickness: 0.3mm; Weight: 0.4g.



Discussion:



Similar objects have been recorded as 2019 T316 (LEIC-47D0C2), 2018 T650 (HAMP-F792A5), 2010 T664 (LVPL-83FE92) and 2013 T471 (WMID-3CBCF0). The latter record states that similar multi-grooved strips of Bronze Age date are known from throughout Britain including in the British Museum collection from Flixton, Yorkshire (2004,0904.1a-b, Treasure Annual Report 2003, 16. no. 2) and Ravencliff Cave, Derbyshire (British Museum 1906,1224.1-2) as well as recent finds such as Ansley, Warwickshire and West Acre Norfolk (Treasure Annual Report 2007, 47-48).



2017 T882 (SOM-62CE08) states that several similar pieces have also been found bent into cylindrical beads and it is unclear if this was their original purpose or if this was a common reuse for parts of larger ribbon ornaments.



Conclusion: 



In terms of age and as the object contains a minimum of 10% precious metal it qualifies as Treasure under the stipulations of the Treasure Act 1996.
Subsequent action: Submitted for consideration as Treasure
Object: Miniature Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to ROMAN (1150 to 410)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: East Knoyle, Wiltshire, Wiltshire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 31.57 mm
Thickness: 7.92 mm
Weight: 9.12 g
Description: An unfinished cast copper alloy miniature socketed axehead, dating to c.1150 BC-410 AD. The axe has the remains of the irregular globule of casting sprue at the cutting edge. Broadly sub-triangular with tapering parallel sides. The socket opening is oval. One face of the axe demonstrates a casting flaw which slightly distorts the profile of the object, though there are no casting seams visible anywhere on the object. A prominent sub-circular groove is visible on one edge of the axe, this is probably a failed attempt at creating a loop which may have served to suspend the piece, this is probably the reason why the object was not completed.

Reference: similar examples of completed miniature axe heads can be seen on the PAS database: PUBLIC-83FCAD, WMID-6F570A, PUBLIC-83C3D1

Date: Late Bronze Age to Roman

Dimensions: 31.57 mm x 11.55 mm x 7.92 mm

Weight: 9.12 g.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Dummer, Basingstoke and Deane, Hampshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 26.1 mm
Thickness: 8.3 mm
Weight: 19.13 g
Description: A fragment of a middle Bronze Age copper alloy flanged or palstave axehead, comprising a 26.1mm long section of the butt end. The fragment is flat in profile, with the tapering ends of parallel ridges along each side. The butt end tapers and the end is heavily worn. The break is patinated and looks ancient.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 41.2 mm
Thickness: 6.2 mm
Weight: 5.85 g
Description: A fragment from the tip of a Middle to Late Bronze Age spearhead c.1500-800 BC. The fragment comprises the extreme tip and is relatively well preserved. The piece is sub-triangular in plan with a distinctive bi-convex profile. The break is old and patinated but the artefact is relatively unabraded. The cutting edges are slightly rolled and the central rib extends to the tip making a strong puncturing point. The surface patina is a brown colour with a well formed surface longitudinal patinated scratches are present on either edge suggesting that the spear had been used and sharpened. A direct parallel or narrower date cannot be suggested due to the fragmentary nature of the artefact.



The spear tip measures 41.2mm length, is 12.8mm wide at the break and 6.2mm tick. It weighs 5.85 grams
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Spearhead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1200 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Biggleswade, Central Bedfordshire, Central Bedfordshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 46.67 mm
Thickness: 12.44 mm
Weight: 9.6 g
Description: A fragment of a cast copper alloy  spearhead, of Middle to Late Bronze Age date (1200-800 BC).



The blade is narrow and triangular with a pronounced mid rib on both sides extending to the tip of the spear which tapers in to a point. In cross section the object is lozenge. The edges narrow and flare out from the mid-rib. There are multiple abrasions and missing portions of the edges. The fragment terminated in an old abraded transverse break. The socketed lower portion of the object is missing and the retained portions has a shallow concave aspect expose by the break.



The metal is a mid-green in colour with a pitted and corroded patina.



As this represents only a small fragment of the spear it is not possibly to classify the form of the complete object. It is probably of a later Middle Bronze Age to Late Bronze Age (c. 1200-c. 800 cal BC).



Similar objects can be found on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database: NLM-99D791, IOW-F3883D, SUR-BB2595



Length: 46.67mm, Width: 13.02mm, Thickness: 12.44mm, Thickness (tip): 7.54mm, Weight: 9.6g
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Rapier (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1600 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Charlton Marshall, North Dorset, Dorset (South West)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 34.94 mm
Thickness: 1.83 mm
Weight: 3.08 g
Description: A fragment of copper alloy blade, probably from a rapier or dirk. The tip only of the blade remains. The blade is double-edged and thin with a low mid-rib creating a narrow lentiod cross section at the break. The blade tapers from the horizontal break to the rounded end where it is damaged.

Date: Bronze Age -

Dimensions: 34.94 mm x 12.94 mm x 1.83 mm

Weight: 3.08 g
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Palstave (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1400 to -1250)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Tanworth-in-Arden, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwickshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 119.2 mm
Thickness: 18.7 mm
Description: A cast copper alloy unlooped palstave axehead of Middle Bronze Age date (circa 1500 to circa 1300 BC). The axehead is broken at the butt end with a ragged, but ancient, break. It has two longitudinal flanges which extend from the butt end beyond the curving stop ridge. Viewed from the side, these ridges are lozenge shaped. The attributes on the palstave are very worn. It is likely that there was a shield-shaped moulding below the stop ridge and a rib down the centre of the blade on both faces. The blade is narrow and without the usual prominent splayed tips of other early palstaves. The axehead is heavily worn and corroded, with a pitted grey-green patina. There are areas of a glossy olive green patina on either side of the stop ridge, on both faces of the axe. This palstave axehead belongs to the Taunton Phase of Bronze Age metalwork, dating circa 1400-1250 BC. It is similar to no. 809 in Schmidt and Burgess 1981, described as a low flanged palstave Type Wantage Variant Blackrock.



The object measures 119.2mm in length and is 38.3mm at the widest point of the blade. It is 21.1mm wide at the butt end. It is 18.7mm thick across the stop ridge and only 5.7mm thick at the thinnest part of the blade.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Ribbon (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-2350 to -1000)
Material: Gold 
Found: Salle, Broadland, Norfolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 40 mm
Thickness: 1.5 mm
Weight: 3 g
Description: Description: Rectangular piece of gold sheet with repoussé and punched decoration, of early to middle Bronze Age date. The decoration consists of three longitudinal panels, each one made from a pair of relief lines or creases with  corresponding grooves on the reverse, so either pushed out from the reverse (the repoussé technique) or hammered over a  shaped former or patrix.  Each of the panels is filled with two longitudinal rows of punched dots, some set in pairs and others offset to give a zig-zag effect. The punch used was circular and round-ended.



Each short edge is broken, but each straight long edge has about 2mm in width neatly folded over to the reverse; the fold runs along the outermost of the relief lines. The entire object is now crumpled.



Dimensions: Maximum surviving length 40mm. The width varies due to the crumpled condition, from a minimum of 13mm in the centre to a maximum of 17mm at one end. The sheet is perhaps 0.25mm thick and the folded areas are a maximum of 1.5mm thick. It weighs 3.0g.



Discussion and Date: Rectangular gold strips with dot or pointillé decoration have been recorded on the PAS database at BUC-4313C7, PAS-35C8A8 and WAW-FF1E9A, and longitudinal creases have been recorded at WILT-34D958. This example has relatively complex decoration, but otherwise fits well into a group of ribbon or strip ornaments of early to middle Bronze Age date, c. 2350 to 1000 BC.
Notes: As the object is made of more than 10% precious metal and is over 300 years old, it constitutes potential Treasure under the Treasure Act 1996.



ENF145877



Drawing by Jason Gibbons
Subsequent action: Submitted for consideration as Treasure
Object: Adze (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1500 to -1100)
Material: Copper alloy 
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 142 mm
Thickness: 17 mm
Weight: 186 g
Description: A copper alloy palstave adze that is rectangular in form and cross-section with a narrow curved blade. The rear half has flanged sides on both the top and bottom faces that project vertically creating a U-shaped channel that terminate at the stop ridge that is position in the middle of the item. A small triangular indentation sits in front to the stop ridge.  



The sides on the front half have a shallow concave arc that expands out to either tip of the blade. The forward edge of the blade has a short bevel (2mm long) on both sides, although one side is steeper than the other and maybe an indication that this item was sharpened in antiquity. 





This item is in excellent condition with much of the original patina remaining in the form of a smooth brown layer, this has been chipped of in places leaving a dark green surface behind.





Middle Bronze Age 1500 BC - 1150
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Sword (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-950 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Madley, County of Herefordshire, County of Herefordshire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 587 mm
Thickness: 6 mm
Weight: 572 g
Description: A complete although broken Late Bronze Age copper alloy sword of the Ewart Park Metalworking Industry (c. 950 - 750 BC). The hilt of the sword is formed from a straight bar (45mm long), the forward side of which tapers into the narrow grip. The grip is 75mm long and has slightly convex sides, bring at the thickest two thirds along its length. There is a line of three rivet holes in the centre of the grip. The grip leads onto the hilt of the sword that expands outwards with straight angled edges and two rivet holes on each side. Form the hilt the sides curve down to the leaf shaped blade which is 29mm wide near its base and gently expands to 39mm wide at the final quarter before rapidly narrowing to the pointed tip. In cross-section the blade has a low oval shape with pointed tips that have bevelled edges.





This item has been broken into seven separate parts, at each of the breaks the sword has been bent by between 30-40 degrees in order to achieve the break. This is not post-depositional damage but a premeditated act prior to loss/burial. Similar post-depositional ritualistic acts can also be seen on Bronze Age items LVPL-55FB97, HAMP-24C69E and GLO-7EFE1A.
Subsequent action: Informed finder that the object should be submitted as Treasure
Object: Casting Waste (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to MODERN (-2350 to 1900)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Clifton Reynes, Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes ()
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 27.7 mm
Thickness: 15.9 mm
Weight: 18.07 g
Description: A fragment of copper alloy casting waste of unknown date, from Bronze Age to modern period. The fragment is sub triangular in shape, and oval in cross section. The fragment consists of layers of copper alloy that have been fused together, and there are air bubbles and circular indentatons and projections throughout from manufacture. It has a light green patina with patches of light brown. It measures 27.7mm in length, 25.2mm in width, 15.9mm in thickness and weighs 18.07g.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Unidentified Object (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to IRON AGE (-1500 to -100)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Lenham, Maidstone, Kent (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 41.7 mm
Height: 35.27 mm
Thickness: 14.56 mm
Weight: 20.36 g
Description: An incomplete cast copper-alloy rounded moustache-shaped object of late Bronze Age or Iron Age date.



Description: The object has been cast in one and survives as half of its original crescentric shape. The remaining half tapers to a damaged point from a bulbous body down to a point with cast alternating ridges and grooves running up to the point. The alternating pattern is not present on the inside edge of the object and consists of 22 lines in total. The object appears to have snapped just pst the grooved body as seen on KENT-77A0BF. The point has also been blunted and splayed. The breaks seems to be heavily worn 



Measurements: 41.7mm wide, 35.27mm high. 14.56mm thick. 20.36g



Discussion: A good number of these so called 'moustache' shaped objects of have now been recovered and several are recorded on the PAS database. Examples with a shape very similar to this example include PAS reference numbers KENT-77A0BF, NARC-925E14,  HAMP-6F4C45 and BERK-719DA8. One example was found in the Salisbury Hoard (Stead, 1998, no.117).



They are thought to date from the middle Bronze Age to the late Iron Age. Their function is uncertain, although the lozenge shaped recess at the bottom of this example (and in many of the others known) suggests that they were mounted on or below something. This was possibly something such as a dagger handle, although the absence of evidence makes this conjectural. Another suggestion has been a Scabbard Chape, in which case the object would be the other way up. Dr JD Hill at the British Museum suggests that they are Iron Age rather than Bronze Age, but this is yet to be confirmed by excavation of a stratified example.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Chisel (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1150 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Upton Grey, Basingstoke and Deane, Hampshire (South East)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 39 mm
Thickness: 1.2 mm
Weight: 7.53 g
Description: A cast copper-alloy tanged chisel dating to the middle to late Bronze Age (c. 1150-800 BC). The object is broadly flat, triangular in shape and rectangular in cross section. The 'tang' is narrow and gradually widens before flaring outward to form a slightly convexly rounded flat blade. One surface of the tang is corroded and has a white residue while the edge of the blade is uneven and damaged slightly but worn. The entire object has a patchy light and mid-green patina. The chisel measures 39mm in length. The pointed terminal of the tang is a maximum width of 1.5mm in width and thickness. The blade is 16.8mm at its widest and 1.2mm thick. It weighs 7.53 grams.



A number of similar objects are recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme database, all dating from the middle to late Bronze age (e.g. IOW-C695CB SUR-6751DB, SOM-589161, NMS-5EB338 and LEIC-90F47D).
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-950 to -750)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Ayot St. Lawrence, Welwyn Hatfield, Hertfordshire (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 29.9 mm
Thickness: 13.3 mm
Weight: 49.18 g
Description: An incomplete cast copper-alloy axehead fragment, probably a ribbed socketed type, dating to the later Bronze Age (c. 950-750 BC). The surviving axe consists of the blade and part of the broken hollow body. The body of the axe is sub-trapezoidal in plan and rectangular in cross-section. A short section of the offset longitudinal casting seam is visible on each side. The body extends while gradually thinning to a flared convex cutting edge with broken and worn corners that expand slightly wider than the body. The blade edge is worn and damaged, while the breaks on the body are also old and worn. The exterior surfaces of the axehead have a mid-green patina with patches of brown deposition residue. There are several areas of lamination on the surfaces of the body and blade that have a light-green patina as well, as do the breaks on the body and the interior surfaces of the hollow.



The axe head measures a maximum of 29.9mm in length, 43.4mm in maximum width, 13.3mm in body thickness at the break and 4.2mm thick at the blade edge. The entire object weighs 49.18 grams.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Blade (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (-1000 to -800)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Offmore and Comberton, Wyre Forest, Worcestershire (West Midlands)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 65.11 mm
Thickness: 4.97 mm
Weight: 21.65 g
Description: A fragment of a copper alloy blade dated to the Middle to Late Bronze Age (c. 1000-800 BC). The fragment is sub-oval in section and rectangular in plan. The fragment appears to represent the mid-section of a small rapier or dagger. The remains of the section appear to be slightly wider at one end than the opposite, thus representing a section further up towards the hilt. The cutting edges are chipped and worn. There is a central mid-rib apparent on both faces of the blade. The object has a brownish-green patina and shows signs of corrosion.



The overall dimensions are as follows: 65.11mm in length, 22.12mm in width, 4.97mm in thickness and 21.65g in weight.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder
Object: Axehead (Bronze Age)
Period: Bronze Age to BRONZE AGE (900 to 600)
Material: Copper alloy 
Found: Exning, Forest Heath, Suffolk (Eastern)
Discovery method: Metal detector
Length: 26.3 mm
Thickness: 3.2 mm
Description: Fragment of a Middle - Late Bronze Age copper alloy axehead dating to the period c. 900 - 600 BC. Corner fragment with old breaks on all edges. Casting seam visible on the outer face. Mottled dark green patina with slight greyish sheen.
Subsequent action: Returned to finder