Conservation work has revealed “exceptionally rare” silver-coloured objects in a hoard of Bronze Age artefacts unearthed by a metal detectorist.
The Peebles Hoard, dating from between 1,000BC and 800BC, had lain undisturbed for 3,000 years before being found by Mariusz Stepien near the Scottish Borders town in 2020.
It was acquired by National Museums Scotland (NMS) last year and comprises more than 500 pieces, many “without archaeological parallel anywhere in the world”.
It includes two rattle pendants, a sword still in its wooden scabbard, bronze buttons looped on to cords, and the preserved remains of complex decorative straps.
Initial conservation of the hoard has revealed rare silver-coloured objects from an era when silver was unknown, with analysis showing the colour is the result of high levels of tin on the surface.
According to NMS, this is thought to have been the product of a “deliberate enrichment technique” by highly-skilled craftspeople.
Dr Matthew Knight, senior curator of prehistory at NMS, said: “The Peebles Hoard is truly a one-of-a-kind discovery, and I have never seen anything like the stunning, silver-coloured finish of these Bronze Age objects. They almost glow.”
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The hoard was allocated to NMS under the Treasure Trove process – with an ex gratia payment made to Mr Stepien.
It was removed from the ground in a single block of earth and excavated under laboratory conditions at the National Museums Collection Centre in Edinburgh.
NMS said the function of many of the objects found is yet to be discovered, but that it is thought some may have adorned a horse or wooden vehicle.
It said that the tin-enriched decoration would have added to the objects’ impact, and signified high status and wealth.
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NMS estimates that it will take three years to complete the conservation of the hoard.
The work is being supported by The Leche Trust, the Pilgrim Trust and a group of private trusts and donors.
Peebles Hoard conservator Bethan Bryan said: “Working on the conservation of the Peebles Hoard is a rare privilege and definitely a career high point.
“As well as removing dirt and corrosion, it is essential that we preserve as much precious organic material as possible for future research.
“Getting to this point has been a challenging and incredibly time-intensive process, but the moment the silvery surface began to emerge was magical – a secret revealed after 3,000 years.”
