Treasure Hunting

This morning I found a story about a great find that ends in tragedy - that is, if you consider losing a hunting partner and good friend a tragedy (and I do).

The Yorkshire Post is reporting the story of Metal Detectorists’ Charl Richardson and Richard Hunter. They were good friends, frequent hunting buddies and treasure hunters who often searched North Yorkshire together. Together they found an amazing find of great historical significance - A silver medieval seal that portrays the murder of former Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Becket in 1170!

Now most of us would do everything short of flipping out if we found something that old. And who better to share that news, excitement, fame and possible fortune with then your loyal hunting buddy? Unfortunately that’s not the way it worked out for Carl and Richard.

Carl claims sole ownership of the seal he says he discovered in a field belonging to farmer John Wray in August or September of 2006 while he was out with his mother.

Meanwhile, fellow detectorist Richard is the one who reported the find to the Portable Antiquities Scheme at Newcastle Museum. He says he was with Carl when the seal was found and said that they had a “gentleman’s agreement” to share anything they uncovered that day.

Since both refuse to give the seal to the other, or share it’s ownership with one another, the seal will go to the British Museum where it will not be released until ownership can be established without a doubt.

A lengthy and costly legal process is in store for both the men and the seal. Meanwhile, it’s already cost them a friendship.

For a more uplifting story about two hunting partners who understand and respect their friendship more than a valuable find, check out an earlier post we made about how a Penny Is a Dream Come True. And check out our article about Britains Portable Antiquities Scheme for more information about how submitting an item works.

In the meantime, treasure your friends more than your finds and have fun - together!

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