Moorhead abstract 2007
Britain's Portable Antiquities Scheme and a virtual coin collection for all to use: Sam Moorhead, British Museum, London
Since its inception in 1997, the Portable Antiquities Scheme has recorded over 60,000 coins, of which 45,000 are Roman. These records, often with images, are available for anyone to view on "www.finds.org.uk":www.finds.org.uk.
This database is of enormous importance for numismatists and archaeologists because it provides new evidence about particular coinages and regions of the country. Initial analysis of the Roman coin finds shows how the PAS is making a significant contribution to our understanding of Roman Britain. Furthermore, the PAS is engaging the public in the numismatic history of Britain which leads to more reported discoveries and general interest.