Information for archaeology units and other fieldworkers

At present all finds assemblages made through archaeological excavation or other types of fieldwork in Scotland are claimed by the Crown and allocated to Scottish Museums. Any change in this practice will be notified here

How the Treasure Trove system operates

• Treasure Trove procedures for Fieldwork units.

How to report assemblages

• All finds recovered in the course of archaeological fieldwork in Scotland must be reported to the TTU. Please click here to download the Fieldwork reporting form.

Removal of finds from Scotland

• Archaeology Units or fieldworkers wishing to remove finds form Scotland must complete a Unit Loan application form.
• Please read the section on the legal implications of the export of finds from Scotland.

Reporting to Historic Scotland (ex FDP)

• Individuals, archaeology units, or other organizations undertaking fieldwork funded by Historic Scotland which results in the recovery of artefacts, should continue to report to Historic Scotland as previously.
• The Treasure Trove Unit (TTU) will then liaise with Historic Scotland regarding the processing of fieldwork cases through the Treasure Trove system.
• Museum storage grants for assemblages from Historic Scotland funded projects will continue to be available from Historic Scotland.