Unearthed treasures from the Bronze Age: rare gold working remnants discovered in Melcombe Horsey
Dorset Museum & Art Gallery is calling on support to help raise funds for the acquisition and preservation of a remarkable discovery: two rare pieces of molten gold, likely the by-product of Bronze Age gold working activity, uncovered in Melcombe Horsey, Dorset in October 2019.
The discovery - made by metal detectorists in a heavily ploughed field - consists of two amorphous gold fragments. Though undiagnostic in form, these pieces are confirmed to be of extremely high purity and were evidently poured or dropped in molten form, leaving behind a distinctively pitted surface. Their composition and context suggest they are remnants of ancient metalworking processes, likely dating back more than 3,000 years.
Experts believe these items represent the cast-off “waste” of early gold crafting techniques - a rare insight into the working practices of prehistoric communities. This discovery joins a growing body of evidence pointing to significant Bronze Age activity in the area, including nearby finds of a copper-alloy axe head, a collection of gold fragments, and a bent gold bracelet, all within several hundred metres.
Jon Marrow, curator of archaeology at the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery commented:
“Though they may seem modest at first glance, these pieces offer an extraordinary glimpse into prehistoric craftsmanship. They are tangible traces of human activity from a time when gold held powerful social and symbolic meaning.”
Under the terms of the Treasure Act 1996, the items have been officially declared as Treasure. In order to ensure they remain in public hands and accessible for future generations, we are seeking funding to acquire these objects for display and further research.
Thanks to the generous support of the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, we are now seeking to raise an additional £1,500 to secure these artefacts for Dorset Museum & Art Gallery. Your donation will help preserve this unique glimpse into our Bronze Age past and ensure its story is shared with future generations.
For press inquiries, contact: enquiries@dorsetmuseum.org If you would like to support this appeal, donations can be made at https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/28676
Please note: Should we meet and surpass our fundraising goal, any additional funds will be responsibly allocated to support the conservation, restoration, or acquisition of other significant artefacts. Your generous contributions will continue to play a vital role in preserving our shared heritage for future generations.
Image rights: The Bronze Age Gold Hoard, Somerset County Council © 2025 | CC licenses
