Conservation advice for finders

This guide is aimed at finders, and in particular metal-detectorists, who find and collect archaeological objects. It provides straightforward information on how to care for and record finds to ensure their long-term survival and to capture useful information about their discovery.

This guide shares some conservation techniques that we hope will prove useful. However, it does not remove the need to consult with specialists, such as a Finds Liaison Officer (FLO), museum curator or professional conservator in cases where you are unsure of an object's historical significance or its condition presents difficulties, nor does it remove the need to offer all finds for recording with the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS).

This guide has been produced by Drakon Heritage on behalf of the Portable Antiquities Scheme and published by Treasure Hunting magazine.

This note can be downloaded as one document in pdf format.