Find Spot record MHG10138 - Roman Hoard, Helmsdale

Hoard of 7 bronze vessels was discovered in 1868 during railway works at Helmsdale. They lay about 1ft below surface. comprises five shallow bowls and two colanders. The shallow vessels are of a type which might have been in fashion for a long time. The smaller colander may be regarded as belonging to a type in vogue to about 150 AD. No example of a dish resembling larger ornate colander has been found in Scotland. Although nothing was found with vessels either to help date them or to show where they came from, decorative pattern of colander indicates Roman influence. The vessels are now preserved in Dunrobin Museum.
J Curle 1932; J M Joass 1886.

The precise findspot of these vessels cannot be ascertained. Two colanders and two bowls are on display in Dunrobin Museum. (Acc Nos. 1868.55-61) Visited by OS (NKB) 2 December 1976.

A group of continental and British copper alloy bowls and strainers, some of which were manufactured in 2nd century AD. Others may be later than this and it is possible that the group was not deposited until 3rd or 4th century AD.
R M Spearman 1991.