Metal Detectorist Unearths 3,000-Year-Old Gold Bracelet in Wales
The late Bronze Age artifact, found on farmland, is estimated to be worth up to £20,000.
A metal detectorist has discovered a 3,000-year-old gold bracelet in Llanuwchllyn, Gwynedd, Wales. The artifact, believed to be from the late Bronze Age, was found by Idris Thomas on farmland belonging to Geraint Edwards.
Experts from Museum Wales analyzed the bracelet and determined it is 92.8% gold. Brett Hammond, CEO of Timeline Auctions, has estimated its value to be between £15,000 and £20,000, though an official valuation is pending.
Thomas was scanning the field for about 20 minutes when his metal detector alerted him to the find. He initially mistook the glint of gold for tin foil before digging it up. "I just saw a flash of gold and dug a little bit around it," Thomas stated.
At a treasure hearing in Caernarfon, north west Wales deputy coroner Sarah Riley described the discovery as "absolutely stunning." Experts noted that the bracelet would have belonged to an individual of high status within their farming community.
Edwards expressed a long-held belief that his land possessed a "quite unique feeling to it" and expressed curiosity about the origin of the gold. The bracelet is being sent for further analysis and recording. "Some people never have the chance to find such a thing on their own land," Edwards remarked, adding that he felt "quite attached" to the bracelet.
Thomas, who took up metal detecting two years ago after being inspired by television, described the find as a "once in a lifetime" experience. "I'm absolutely shocked, over the moon and it's hard to describe the feeling," he said, noting that some individuals search for years without finding anything comparable.
Storiel Museum and Art Gallery has expressed interest in acquiring the artifact after its valuation by the Treasure Valuation Committee. The British Museum and Museum Wales have been contacted for comment.