English Metal Detectorists Unearth Three Bronze Age Gold Bracelets Worth $400,000

Alan Daniels, 48, and Andy Crammond, 34, made an extraordinary archaeological discovery in May when they unearthed three ancient gold bracelets, known as torcs, near Carlisle, England. The artifacts, dating to approximately 1100 B.C., have been valued at roughly $400,000 and are currently undergoing assessment by the British Museum.

The three torcs, found in exceptional condition despite their age, collectively weigh 18.27 ounces or 1.14 pounds. Daniels explained the remarkable preservation, noting that gold does not tarnish and the bracelets emerged from the soil in the same state as when they were buried more than 3,000 years ago.

Crammond discovered the first bracelet just inches beneath freshly plowed earth and immediately alerted Daniels, who located a second torc while searching the area. A third torc was found approximately 20 feet from the initial discoveries, according to reporting from Bournemouth News and Picture Service.

For both hobbyists, the find represents a dramatic reversal of fortune after years of fruitless metal detecting expeditions. Daniels recalled that they had spent years searching together without success, often returning home disappointed. During this particular outing, after two hours of finding only aluminum cans, they switched locations, leading to their breakthrough.

A coroner will determine whether the artifacts legally qualify as treasure under British law. If they meet the legal definition, a museum or institution could purchase the torcs at fair market value, with proceeds divided among Crammond, Daniels, and the landowner. Should no institutional buyer emerge, the detectorists retain the option to sell the items at auction.