Metal detectorist convicted and fined €1k for failing to report discovery of archaeological objects

People must apply for consent to use detection devices to search for archaeological objects, and all archaeological objects without a known owner are property of the State, and finds must be reported within 96 hours. Picture: Stock image

A metal detectorist has been convicted and fined €1,000 for failing to report the discovery of archaeological objects which have now been returned to the State.

A range of artefacts, including silver medieval coinage and part of a medieval horse harness, were found by gardaí as part of their investigation into the case, and the items are now in the care and custody of the National Museum of Ireland.