50 Finds from Staffordshire

is part of the ‘50 Finds’ series, highlighting the work of the Portable Antiquities Scheme. This scheme records archaeological finds made by members of the public, often metal detectorists. It focuses predominantly on finds older than 300 years and, through this recording, our archaeological knowledge of the county has increased significantly. Some finds, like the Staffordshire Hoard and the Leekfrith Torcs, have been rewriting the history books.

The majority of these recorded finds remain in private ownership, but some have been acquired by the regional museums, mostly thanks to the Treasure Act 1996. This book highlights some of the key finds that have shed a light on human activity through the ages, from Palaeolithic hand axes to Roman coins, from Saxon treasures to Post-Medieval sundials. Each find has its own story to tell, which fits within the history of Staffordshire.