I have been a professional archaeologist for 25 years full time,with a specialist interest in metal small finds from all periods.During this time I have been employed as a finds officer,and conservation officer,as well as being involved in project management.Due to the downturn in the economic climate I have had to find an alternative source of income,using my skill base,whilst not compromising myself as a professional archaeologist.I continue to work as a field archaeologist,whenever there is contract work available.I am an Associate of the professional body The Chartered Institute for Archaeologists and adhere to their code of conduct. Therefore I decided to provide a service sourcing antiquities to clients who wish to buy for investment,or who wish to have artifacts authenticated prior to their purchase.I also source and sell artifacts from all periods,but only those from reputable dealers.I made up my mind from the start that I would not deal with metal detectorists as provenence is often lost. To be fair I would also say that 99% of detectorists are extremely responsible and enthusiastic about their subject. They also provide a valuable research tool. Most of the artifacts come from family estate sales,or in the lesser case,items which have been recorded by the Portable Antiquities Scheme.
