Finds Reporting versus Finds Recording: challenges and opportunities in processing metal-detector finds in England, Estonia and Finland

Archaeologists across Europe record metal-detector finds with an understanding this data can add to knowledge. Invariably, whilst the work of archaeologists recording public finds is broadly similar, approaches and priorities can contrast. This might be explained by the fact that detectorists (and other public finders) explore landscapes that differ in terms of their archaeological potential and the ease with which it can be exploited. It is also the case archaeologists work within differing models of heritage protection, grounded in diverse cultural and historical traditions. Hence, the mechanisms by which finders report their discoveries and how that data is logged also vary, impacting the character and reuse of these data for research and other purposes.

With such factors in mind, this paper examines the situation in England, Estonia and Finland, three countries where metal-detecting is legal, but where the obligations of the public to report their finds contrast, as do approaches to recording public finds and making this data accessible. As in many parts of Europe, these countries are experiencing an expediential growth in hobby metal-detecting, which has led to an increase in small finds being reported, but also placed pressure on existing processes and systems for recording public finds and makes this paper timely. To address this challenge all three countries have identified opportunities provided through digital technology and citizen science, albeit in different ways. Recognising that much can be learnt from the experiences of archaeologists who record public finds on a day-to-day basis, this paper seeks to understand the opportunities provided by involving the public in the reporting and recording of their finds.