A SILVER bell from the post-Medieval period has been declared as treasure by a coroner.

The artefact was discovered by James Hunt while he was out metal detecting in Ousby on May 9, 2021.

Mr Hunt notified the finds liaison officer, who then referred it to the British Museum.

Cockermouth Coroners’ Court heard the item was a crushed silver bell, weighing 1.8g and dated back to the post-Mediaeval period, from 1400 to 1700.

A report from the finds liaison officer said bells such as these were fashionable dress accessories in the late 14th century and are referred to as ‘hawking’ bells.

For an item to be officially defined as treasure according to the Treasure Act 1996, it has to be at least 300 years old and must have a metallic content of which at least 10 per cent by weight is precious metal.

Coroner Robert Cohen said the item met the criteria for treasure. He said: “I’m satisfied that the object is treasure and I so declare it.”

Penrith Museum has expressed an interest in acquiring the bell.

By law, finders of potential treasure must legally notify their local coroner.

An inquest determines whether the find is treasure. If the coroner rules it is, the finder must offer it for sale to a museum. A reward is then shared between the finder and landowner.

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