The news of a haul of Anglo-Saxon treasure found by a metal detectorist in a field in Staffordshire, of objects unparalleled in the UK, has been widely acclaimed. However will the money needed to pay a reward to the finder and landowner have to be found at the expense of archaeological or museum projects also of potential value and importance?
It is likely that many more individuals will be inspired to take up metal detecting. The cash value of this discovery will be made public soon, but the potential for a significant incremental loss is incalculable.
