Appendix B: Functions of the Treasure Trove Unit ( TTU)
The TTU manages and delivers the TT system in Scotland and current functions include:
- to provide specialist services by identifying and assessing which archaeological and historical objects submitted by the public are appropriate for claiming or disclaiming as TT
- to provide a front-line service for public, professional and other enquiries relating to TT in Scotland
- to promote awareness of the TT system in Scotland through publications, lectures and participation in public events
- to register and curate all TT objects submitted to the TTU
- to provide Scottish museums with information on TT cases and offer advice on aspects of conservation, interpretation and display
- to monitor compliance by finders, museums, archaeology units and other bodies with TT law, timescales and deadlines to ensure the effective operation of the system
- to undertake all case-work associated with claimed, unclaimed and disclaimed objects from initial receipt to final transfer
- to organize, where appropriate, the scientific analysis of TT objects, other than those from organized archaeological fieldwork
- to organize, where appropriate, the conservation of TT objects insofar as is necessary to ensure they are in a stable condition at the time of transfer
- to ensure that all significant assemblages from archaeological fieldwork are declared for TT purposes
- to operate the TT pre-allocation loans system on behalf of the QLTR
- to advise, liaise and maintain close operational links with the QLTR and his staff and with other relevant bodies including the Scottish Government Culture Division, Scottish museums, MGS, Historic Scotland and the Receiver of Wreck
- to act as secretariat to SAFAP by producing minutes and Panel paperwork three (or more) times per year and to provide such additional support as required
- to manage and schedule the TT caseload to correspond with three (or more) Panel meetings per year
- to research and provide guideline valuations for TT objects for SAFAP
- to maintain and develop the TT website
- to maintain and develop the TT archive (digital, paper and image)
- to publish annually a list of TT allocations in the Council for Scottish Archaeology's Discovery & Excavation in Scotland (D& ES)
- to publish reports on TT cases in specialist publications
- to maintain links with relevant bodies in all UK countries, including the British Museum and the Portable Antiquities Scheme
- to participate at national and international level in academic and organizational aspects within the portable antiquities field
TT.32/07 A 17th century gold finger ring from Gattonside, Scottish Borders. Allocated to Scottish Borders Museum Service.
A gold finger ring with a beaded frieze known as gadrooning which was particularly popular in the 17th century. Such rings were common throughout the period and would be used as wedding rings. This example is in very fine condition and was found in a garden.