Finding gold on the beach

[Margatehunter]

Hi all,
What is the correct procedure when finding gold rings etc. on a beach, do you have to tell authorities or are you allowed to sell ?
Obviously if there was any info on item I would try and trace the owner.
regards Len

[ElgrandRider]

It's a question that I'm sure has been asked many times and I don't think there is a clear answer anymore. Used to be hand in to the police station and see if anyone claims it - good luck trying to do that nowadays!

I found a gold ring on the beach last week and looked into reporting it. Devon police only wanted drugs, large sums of cash, passports or mobile phones. There is a online form to report other items but it is certainly not implied to be mandatory.

Technically you could be liable for theft from finding I believe but can't see what can you realistically do to try and trace the owner for most items...

This my take on it (I'm definitely not an expert or have much experience!). I would imagine it is a divisive subject and maybe that's why you've not had any replies?

[Phil2401]

If you visit your county police authority's website there will be a 'lost and found' or 'lost property' section. It's a matter of conscience whether or not you report your finds.

Phil