Friday, January 13, 2012

1/13/12 Report - Shield Nickle, Sink Hole, Raised Submarine & Anglo Saxon Hoard


Written by the TreasureGuide for the exclusive use of treasurebeachesreport.blogspot.com.

1906 Nickel Find.

Not too easy to find older American coins like this around the Treasure Coast, but they are occasionally found. The lighting caused the image to come out more deeply colored than the real object.


Archaeologists are diving at Little Salt Spring in North Port Florida in hopes of finding the oldest traces of human activity in the Southeast United States. Burials dating from 5,200 to 6,800 years ago have already been found there.

Here is the link to the story.

http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012120109582


Here is an article on the Hunley, a raised Civil War submarine

Nice article with nice photos.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45980970/

Thanks to James F. for the link.


The following article discusses the fascinating discovery of a unique jade necklace from an ancient Mayan ruler.

http://www.guatemala-times.com/archeology/takalik-abaj/2813-unique-discovery-of-jade-necklace-from-ancient-mayan-ruler-at-takalik-abaj.html


I was thinking this morning about how the British seem to do a very good job of working with metal detectorists, who have located a number of amazing finds over there. The Anglo Saxon Gold Hoard featured in the Oct. 28, 2010 National Geographic is just one example.

Detectorists in England have made numerous discoveries that resulted in detailed archaeological study, and the preservation and display of artifacts. That sparks the interest of people, increases awareness of history and archaeology, and promotes support for academic endeavors. On the other hand, the system promoted by many archaeologists and bureaucrats in the U. S. discourages people from becoming interested and involved.

Items From the Anglo Saxon Gold Hoard. Photo National Geographic.

Here is the link to National Geographic gold hoard article.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/09/photogalleries/anglo-saxon-gold-hoard-pictures/

When you think of it, archaeology would be much the worse if it wasn't for the contributions of amateurs, collectors, and enthusiasts of many types. I know that if it wasn't for people like Mel Fisher, nautical archaeology would be way behind where it is today.

For me, I'd like to say thank you to all the amateur archaeologists, historians, collectors, salvors, etc. who have contributed directly or indirectly to our state and national collections and the knowledge base of our academic disciplines.

Remember, it was a shepherd boy that found the Dead Sea Scrolls. Think about that.


Well, the wind is from the west today. The sand and shells have been building up on many of the beaches. Beach conditions are not good for finding old shipwreck items, but there are still targets out there.

I was out this morning and although I didn't find any objects of much interest, I did find a few things and learned a few things. I was watching how those lazy waves were moving shells and things. You could see very clearly what was going on. Visibility in the water was good. Basically, I enjoyed the beautiful weather and observing nature. And there were enough targets to keep a person busy.


Happy hunting,
TreasureGuide@comcast.net