MODERN UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT

Unknown artist

Non-destructive X-ray fluorescence analysis of the surface indicated an approximate metal composition of 96% silver, 3% copper with trace level impurities. The terminals are soldered to the wire with an alloy containing silver, copper and zinc. The object resembles a miniature torc. It consists of a twisted silver shaft, bent into a U-shape, with a spherical terminal at each end. The ratio of zinc to copper in the solder attaching the terminals would suggest this object is modern. Although it resembles a miniature torc, it is certainly not Iron Age in date. Although this object has a precious metal content exceeding 10%, it is most likely less than 300 years old, and as such falls outside the provision of the Treasure Act 1996.