The design and implementation of a high-assurance forensic geology and police search following the discovery of the Staffordshire (Anglo Saxon) Gold Hoard

Abstract

Abstract In 2009 a hoard of gold and silver objects was found in a ploughed field in Staffordshire, by a member of the public using a metal detector. The site was subjected to a detailed archaeological excavation and approximately 3940 items in total were found. Archaeologists interpreted the find as belonging to the Anglo Saxon age (seventh century AD) and probably comprising the military hilts and fixings from swords, helmets, shield, clothing and possibly books, chests and what is now thought to be a cross from the cover of a bible. Archaeologists considered that all hoard-related material that was recoverable at that time had been retrieved from the excavation. To confirm this, a forensic geology and police search was commissioned. This search provided a high level of assurance and was able to confirm that the original archaeological dig was likely to have found all/most of the buried gold that was reasonably and practicably recoverable at that time and buried in the top soil to a depth of 280 mm. In 2012, further items of interest were found in this field. These may have been buried at deeper levels or beyond the original excavation and were possibly brought to the surface by ploughing.