Identifying Detector Finds III
New Finds Identified III Book
The renowned Finds Identified series of books, authored by leading experts in British archaeology has offered an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the rich material culture of Britain’s past. Spanning over 500,000 years, these books provide a comprehensive look at the fascinating objects unearthed across the UK, bringing to life the history of human development and innovation from the Palaeolithic period to the Roman Empire.
The New Finds Identified III Book following on from the successful Finds I and Finds II
The series, which has been produced in collaboration with the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) and the British Museum, focuses on artefacts discovered by everyday people—metal detectorists, amateur archaeologists, and members of the public. The PAS records these finds, allowing for a greater understanding of the types of objects used throughout Britain’s long history. The Finds Identified books are a testament to the importance of these discoveries, combining professional archaeological insight with accessible, detailed descriptions and stunning imagery.
Finds Identified I & II: Understanding Early British Artefacts
The first two books in the series provided a foundational look at the kinds of objects that have shaped British history. Covering everything from tools and pottery to decorative items and personal belongings, these volumes delve into the craftsmanship and daily lives of the people who created and used them.
The earlier books explored:
Prehistoric and Early Medieval Periods: Highlighting stone tools, bronze weapons, and Iron Age items, they provide insight into the ingenuity of early Britons.
Saxon and Viking Artefacts: Examining objects from these fascinating periods, such as intricate jewellery, coins, and weaponry, readers gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and culture of these warrior societies. Each artefact is meticulously cataloged, with descriptions of its function, historical context, and the materials used. Accompanied by high-quality images, these books make it easy to identify similar finds and appreciate their historical significance.
Finds Identified III: Materials, Manufacture & Design (500,000 BC - AD 410)
The third and latest book in the series, Finds Identified III, shifts its focus to the evolution of materials, manufacturing techniques, and design over half a million years, from the earliest flint tools to Roman-era objects. Written by renowned archaeologists Kevin Leahy and Michael Lewis, this volume offers a deeper dive into how different materials shaped human progress and innovation throughout Britain's history.
Focusing on materials and how they were worked
Highlights of Finds Identified III:
Flint Tools to Roman Coins: The book traces the trajectory of technological advancements, starting with the earliest known stone tools from the Palaeolithic period and moving through to the sophisticated coinage of the Roman Empire.
Introduction of Metals: A significant portion of the book focuses on the arrival and use of metals such as bronze, iron, and later, precious metals like gold and silver. It explores how these materials were worked, the new challenges they posed, and the innovative techniques that were developed to craft more complex objects.
New Processes and Designs: As materials advanced, so did the design and functionality of objects. The book explains how the introduction of metals not only changed the way items were made but also led to entirely new types of objects, such as tools, weapons, and ornamental pieces.
Illustrations in Context: The numerous illustrations not only depict the finds themselves but also place them within the broader cultural and historical context. The book provides a visual and intellectual guide to understanding how these objects were used and what they tell us about the societies that produced them.
Examples of the high quality images and detailed references within the Finds Identified III Book
Why the Finds Identified Series is Essential for Metal Detectorists?
The Finds Identified series serves as both an educational resource and a practical guide for anyone interested in British archaeology. Here’s why it stands out:
1. In-Depth Archaeological Insight
Each book in the series offers a wealth of knowledge, penned by experts in the field. Readers gain not only a detailed understanding of the objects themselves but also insight into the social, economic, and technological changes that accompanied these finds.
2. Accessibility for All Audiences
Despite being rich in archaeological detail, the series is designed to be accessible to both professional archaeologists and amateur enthusiasts. Clear descriptions, concise historical context, and comprehensive illustrations make it easy for anyone to engage with the material.
3. High-Quality Illustrations
The Finds Identified books are packed with high-quality, full-color photographs and drawings of the objects. These images are invaluable for identifying similar finds and offer a visual journey through the evolution of human craftsmanship over thousands of years.
4. Contribution to Archaeological Research
By focusing on finds recorded through the Portable Antiquities Scheme, the series highlights the importance of community engagement in archaeology. These books showcase how local discoveries contribute to our understanding of the past, with the PAS database holding records of over a million objects, many of which feature in the series.
The Role of the Portable Antiquities Scheme
The Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS), a program run by the British Museum, plays a crucial role in the Finds Identified series. Launched in 1997, the PAS encourages members of the public to record their discoveries of historical artifacts, which are then added to a national database. This database is a treasure trove of information for archaeologists, researchers, and historians, and many of the objects featured in the Finds Identified books were recorded through this program.
The scheme allows for a more complete picture of Britain’s past, as many of the finds are discovered by people in rural areas or during everyday activities. By including these objects in the series, the authors demonstrate the power of public archaeology in contributing to national heritage.
Conclusion: A Must-Have for History Lovers
The latest instalment of Finds Identified III, is an essential collection for anyone fascinated by British history, archaeology, or the evolution of craftsmanship. These books not only offers detailed information on thousands of objects but also highlight the changing materials, techniques, and designs that have shaped human progress over millennia.
Whether you’re a seasoned archaeologist, a metal detectorist, or simply curious about Britain’s past, the Finds Identified series will deepen your appreciation of the material culture that has defined the island’s history.