Buried for Two Millennia
A rare Roman hoard has been discovered in a field just outside London.
July 18, 12:00 PM
Metal detectorist Adam Maclellan uncovered Roman artifacts in a field within the Chiltern Hills, including a highly uncommon bronze rattle used in religious ceremonies. The finds have been handed over to the Discover Bucks Museum. All items are nearly two thousand years old.
According to reports, the artifacts were found on private land with the owner’s permission. The collection includes:
- two enameled fittings
- a glass game counter
- a bone gaming die
- several bronze objects
A standout piece is the fragmented bronze rattle, which is almost completely intact—including the pellets still inside it.
The Romans used such bronze rattles during religious rituals, and only a handful of similar items have ever been found in Britain. Evidence suggests the artifacts were once stored in a bag or wrapped in fabric, which has since decayed, though traces of the material were observed during the excavation.
Conservation of the finds was funded by a private donor, and the excavation involved an archaeological team from Buckinghamshire Council. The dig was carried out by Oxford Archaeology under the supervision of local experts. All items are now part of an exhibition at the Discover Bucks Museum, which opened as part of an archaeology festival.
Ian Richardson of the British Museum commented: 'This is a great example of successful collaboration between metal detectorists, archaeologists, and museum professionals.'
The discovery of Roman artifacts in the Chiltern Hills highlights the importance of cooperation between amateur metal detectorists and professional archaeologists. These finds not only deepen our understanding of Roman Britain but also underscore the significance of cultural heritage protection. The exhibition now open at the Discover Bucks Museum allows a wider audience to explore these unique artifacts and their story, helping to promote public interest in archaeology.
This recent discovery of Roman artifacts is reminiscent of other significant finds in England, such as a remarkable unique stamp that may alter our understanding of the Sutton Hoo helmet. Both cases highlight the rich archaeological heritage of the region and the potential for new insights into ancient cultures through ongoing research and collaboration.