LINCH PIN

A cast copper alloy fitting of uncertain function, possibly an Iron Age linch poin terminal. The item is broadly circular in plan and plano-convex (D shaped) in cross section - it is broadly trumpet shaped. From the apex of the dome a single sub-circular bar extends, this is broken flush with the surface of the item. Around the external edge of the projection is an incised grove with small incised lines. The opposite side is flat and undecorated but distorted by movement in the ploughsoil. The item has a deep green coloured polished surface patina that covers all surfaces - including the broken projection - this suggests that this damage is old. The function of the object is not clear, it is possibly the funnel from a casting well, although this is not convincing. The finder has suggested that it is similar to the flared terminals of torcs - again it has been difficult to prove as it seems far more robust to most examples previously recorded. The style of the metalwork and the fullness of the patina suggests a later prehistoric date. Martin Foreman (who recorded this object at the rally) suggests that it may be a possible linch pin terminal and suggests that the combination of robusticity, wear and stress in use is more characteristic of horse or chariot fittings dated to the later Iron Age. The appearance of a possibly collared terminal further prompts an identification as a linch pin terminal. Suggested date: Late Iron Age, 100 BC-40 AD.

The artefact measures 28.7mm diameter and is 8.5mm high, the broken projection on the upper surface has a diameter of 16.6mm and projects2.4mm. It weighs 24.39 grams