Answer
Treasure is defined as something, which is:
Objects other than coins -
- Any other object than a coin but which has metallic content of which at least 10 per cent by weight is precious metal (gold or silver) when found and is at least 300 years old.
Coins -
- All coins from the same find (a minimum of two) as long as they must be at least 300 years old when they are found.
- If the coins contain less than 10% of precious metal then there must be at least 10 of them to be classed as a treasure find.
Prehistoric objects -
- Any group of two or more objects of prehistoric date made of any metal composition which have come from the same find.
Other -
- Any object, whatever it is made of, which would have been classed as treasure trove' and does not fall into any of the above.
- Any object which, when found, is part of the same find as an object which is treasure, either at the same time or later.
Treasure does not include objects which are:
- un-worked natural objects (including animal or human remains);
- minerals as extracted from a natural deposit; or
- single coins or groups of coins, lost over a period of time.
If you are unsure as to whether the items you have found are treasure, then it is advisable to contact the coroner or your local Finds Liaison Officer who will be able to advise you.
This is only a summary. For more details see Treasure Trove Scotland.
