Record Your Metal Detecting Finds

The Portable Antiquities Scheme – What to Record and How

1. Photographing Finds

  1. Download the PAS Photo Ruler.
  2. Print the ruler and use it to take clear photographs of your coins and artefacts with scale and clarity.

2. Find Location

Use UK Grid Reference Finder to determine the exact location of your find.

Example: Grid Reference (6-figure) – ST573318

3. Who is the FLO?

A Finds Liaison Officer (FLO) is a museum professional who identifies and records archaeological finds discovered by the public. FLOs support the conservation of local history and work closely with museums and detectorists.

4. How to Report a Find

Email your local FLO with photographs and the grid reference of your find. Below are contact details for regional FLOs:

Somerset FLO

Laura Beckwith
Somerset Heritage Centre, Taunton, TA2 6SF
T: 01823 347457
E: somerset.finds@swheritage.org.uk
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Devon FLO

Brittany Walsh
Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Exeter, EX4 3RX
T: 01823 347426
E: devon.finds@swheritage.org.uk
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Dorset FLO

Ciorstaidh Hayward Trevarthen
Dorset History Centre, Dorchester, DT1 1RP
T: 01305 228254
E: finds@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
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Cornwall FLO

Laura Miucci
Museum of Cornish Life, Helston, TR13 8TH
T: 01326 564027
E: finds@museumofcornishlife.co.uk
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Gloucestershire & Avon FLO

Kurt Adams
Bristol City Museum, BS8 1RL
T: 0117 922 2613
E: kurt.adams@bristol.gov.uk
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Head of Scheme and Treasure

Michael Lewis
British Museum, London, WC1B 3DG
T: +44 (0)207 323 8611
E: mlewis@britishmuseum.org
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5. What is Treasure?

Under the Treasure Act 1996, treasure is typically defined as:

  • Objects over 300 years old and made of at least 10% precious metal (gold or silver).
  • Two or more coins from the same find.
  • Items found in association with other treasure items.

You must report treasure to the coroner within 14 days of discovery. The easiest way is by contacting your local FLO.

6. Reporting All Archaeological Objects

The Portable Antiquities Scheme encourages the recording of all archaeological finds, not just treasure. While voluntary, reporting your finds helps preserve local and national heritage.

“The intention of the Portable Antiquities Scheme… is to record, for public benefit, all archaeological objects found by members of the public.”

7. Code of Practice

Please follow the Code of Practice for Responsible Metal Detecting to ensure your detecting activities are respectful, ethical, and legally compliant.