A court ruling in Northern Ireland (NI) has clarified the definition of what constitutes ‘treasure’ under archaeological investigations.
DoENI writes:
An inquest was held today in Belfast Coroner’s Court about the ring which is believed to date from the 10th-12th century AD.
Under the provisions of the Treasure Act (1996), an object, other than a coin, may be declared to be Treasure provided it contains at least 10 per cent gold or silver, and is at least 300 years old when found.
Welcoming the outcome of the inquest, Minister Mark H Durkan said: ‘This is an important judgement which helps safeguard our rich heritage, especially items of treasure, for present and future generations. This object was one of many hundreds of artefacts retrieved from the site, and each of these artefacts will further help our understanding of life at the Crannóg.
It is my intention that this gold wire ring will form an important part of any future exhibition of materials from Drumclay Crannóg.
‘I wish to acknowledge the partnership with the Department for Regional Development which has ensured that this gold object was brought through to this Inquest.’
