Archaeologists reveal 2nd-century bronze relics accidentally discovered by metal detectorist

One of the artifacts found at the site.
(Image credit: Twitter/Oxford Archaeology)

Archaeologists in the U.K. have revealed a decorated bronze jug handle, a Samian ware cup, and a burial urn from the second-century C.E. burial site of a wealthy Roman. A group of "Weekend Wanderers" found the artifacts by accident when exploring a Whitchurch field with metal detectors.

After the metal detectorist noted the find, experts from Oxford Archaeology unearthed the bronze handle, along with a cremation casket and even the remains of food and drink, during an excavation in October. The excavation also revealed a red jasper intaglio ring depicting Minerva and Mercury. The bronze handle and decorated cup are the most important finds from the site, the archaeologists noted.

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Meghan DeMaria

Meghan DeMaria is a staff writer at TheWeek.com. She has previously worked for USA Today and Marie Claire.