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Bronze Age Gold Bracelet Discovered by Metal Detectorist in Gwynedd
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Discovery of the Bracelet
Idris Thomas, an amateur metal detectorist, was scanning farmland owned by Geraint Edwards near the village of Llanuwchllyn in Gwynedd when his detector signaled a find after about 20 minutes of searching. Initially assuming the signal indicated a piece of tin foil, Thomas uncovered a solid gold object that was later identified as a late Bronze Age bracelet. The find has been formally declared treasure under Welsh heritage regulations.
Physical Characteristics and Age
Experts from Museum Wales examined the artifact and determined it to be composed of 92.8 % gold. Scientific assessment places the bracelet at roughly 3,000 years old, situating it in the late Bronze Age period of British prehistory. The piece’s craftsmanship and material composition suggest it was a high-status personal adornment.
Valuation and Treasure Designation
Brett Hammond, chief executive of Timeline Auctions, provided a provisional market estimate of between £15,000 and £20,000 for the bracelet. No official monetary valuation has been issued by the Treasure Valuation Committee, and the final award will be determined after the inquest process concludes. As a declared treasure, the bracelet will be offered for acquisition by a museum, with proceeds to be shared between the finder and the landowner in accordance with the Treasure Act.
Context of Metal Detecting in Wales
Metal detecting remains a popular hobby across rural Wales, often yielding archaeological material that contributes to the understanding of the region’s ancient societies. Museum Wales routinely collaborates with detectorists and landowners to assess and preserve such discoveries. The recent bracelet find underscores the ongoing relevance of the treasure-finding framework, which balances private discovery with public heritage stewardship.