16th century crucifix found in Notts

A GOLD crucifix and silver whistle dating back to the 16th century that were found in North Notts have been declared treasure.

The crucifix was found in the Tuxford area on August 21 with the use of a metal detector.

It is made of solid gold with traces of enamel.

The crucifix is believed to have belonged to a 'recusant' – a Roman Catholic who refused to attend Church of England services – and has letters engraved across it. It is around 4cms long.

Notts Coroner Dr Nigel Chapman declared the crucifix as treasure under the Treasure Act 1996, and it is being bought by Bassetlaw Museum.

The ornate silver whistle, which is around 3cms long, was found in Bawtry in September 2007 and is also a post-medieval 16th century piece.

It has a flower design on the side and would have been used to give messages at sea.

Dr Chapman also declared this piece treasure and Bassetlaw Museum will also be purchasing the whistle.

No values were given for the objects.

The Treasure Act legally obliges finders of objects which may be deemed treasure to report finds to their local coroner within 14 days. An inquest led by the coroner then determines whether the find constitutes treasure or not.

If it is declared to be treasure, then the owner must offer the item for sale to a museum at a price set by an independent board of antiquities experts. The finder is only allowed to keep it if a museum expresses no interest in the item, or is unable to purchase it.

Bassetlaw Museum is in the 18th century building Amcott House in Grove Street, in the centre of Retford.

It is owned by Bassetlaw District Council.

The collections include local history, archaeology, decorative and fine art, agriculture, costume and textiles.

It is open from 10am to 4.45pm Monday to Saturday and admission is free.

tanya.holden@nottingham eveningpost.co.uk