A gold bar is found in the middle of a field and turns out to be a treasure from the Middle Ages

A small gold rod discovered in a farm field in Whitwell, Derbyshire has been officially declared treasure by the Chesterfield Coroner’s Court following an investigation held Thursday.

The find, made during an organized metal-detecting event on October 26, 2024, has sparked major interest among archaeologists due to its possible age and remarkable state of preservation.

The discovery

The object is a cylindrical gold bar measuring 2.25 inches long and weighing 0.67 ounces. Found in agricultural land, it was later analyzed by experts. According to the report presented to the court, the piece could date back either to the Bronze Age or the Middle Ages.

The hearing was overseen by assistant coroner Sarah Huntbach, who relied on documentation prepared by finds liaison officer Amy Downes. The finder, Rachael Storer, did not attend the session, though her testimony was included in the official record.

What the analysis revealed

Detailed examination showed that one end of the rod had been cut, suggesting it may once have been part of a larger object. The diameter varies slightly between 0.19 and 0.22 inches, with an average thickness of about 0.20 inches. Hammering marks were also identified—techniques typical of prehistoric metalworking.

Experts noted a slight curvature in the center, leading to speculation that it could be a fragment of a bracelet, possibly cut in antiquity for storage or trade. Huntbach pointed out similarities with items from the Fittleworth Hoard, housed at the British Museum, while also acknowledging parallels with rods found at early medieval sites.

Declared treasure

The court concluded that the piece meets the requirements of the Treasure Act of 1996, as it is more than 300 years old and contains more than 10% gold.

Its final destination will now depend on whether local or national museums express interest in acquiring it for preservation and public display.

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