Amateur detectorist uncovers second Bronze Age hoard near Peebles
Mariusz Stepien reported a new Bronze Age treasure cache, the Blythe Hoard, found just seven miles from his earlier Peebles discovery.
Detectorist Mariusz Stepien discovered a second Bronze Age hoard, dubbed the Blythe Hoard, only seven miles from his 2020 Peebles find. Initial detection of an axe head led to the recovery of two bronze axe heads, clay moulds likely used for casting, and Scotland's first complete copper ingot. The Treasure Trove Unit was alerted, and National Museums Scotland archaeologists conducted a rapid excavation that also revealed an ancient stone cairn.
The assemblage has been transferred to the National Museums Collection Centre in Edinburgh for preservation and analysis. Curator Matthew Knight highlighted the rarity of surviving mould material and the hoard's connection to the earlier Peebles find, emphasizing its potential to illuminate Bronze Age craftsmanship and society.
Why it matters
The hoard offers rare insight into Bronze Age metalworking and regional cultural connections in Scotland.
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