In Scotland, what is classed as "ancient"?

[Salix77]

I realise that this might be seen as a silly question to ask but...with regard to metal detecting finds in Scotland, I know that any significant ancient finds must be reported but what exactly constitutes ancient? If I find a George the 1st gold or silver coin, for example, is it classed as ancient or modern, treasure or not?

[Salix77]

I just got a reply back form the local archaeology department, which answered my question. Rather than delete my post, I'm going to quote what they said as it may help someone else. The archaeologist said:

"More than happy to answer questions where I can, and it’s a good one that you pose. In Scotland, the definition is not particularly well laid down, and is in fact something that we are hoping will improve during a review of the Treasure Trove Code over the next 18 months or so.

In essence, there is no real differentiation between ancient and modern when it comes to ownerless goods (the law of bona vacantia on which the treasure trove system works in Scotland). A good rule of thumb is anything which is Victorian or later can be ignored as Treasure Trove, and anything before that can be considered as being treasure for reporting.

So, a George I coin would be considered Treasure Trove (I suspect that it would be almost certainly disclaimed by TTU and disclaimed to yourself for keeping)."