Treasures.
History Unearthed
Allow me to unveil the treasures I've uncovered in the most unexpected corners—a stream's glistening depths, a beach's sandy expanse, a park's serene pathways, a field's rustic charm, and even a bushlands' untouched beauty. Each artifact patiently awaits its story's revival, ready to whisper tales of their past owners and the circumstances that led to their loss. But most thrillingly, it's your curiosity and exploration that breathe new life into these relics, ensuring their narratives endure. Join me as we unlock the mysteries of history, one discovery at a time.
A Toogood Token 1855
The A. Toogood token from Sydney holds a significant place in numismatic history, serving as a testament to Australia's colonial past. Minted in the mid-19th century, this token was issued by the prominent merchant Alfred Toogood, who operated a successful business in Sydney during the era of the Australian gold rushes.
As a merchant token, it was used as a form of currency within local trade networks, bearing Toogood's name and establishment details. Today, the A. Toogood token serves as a cherished artifact, providing a tangible link to Sydney's bustling commercial landscape of yesteryears. With each glimpse of this token, one is reminded of the vibrant economic activity and entrepreneurial spirit that shaped the development of Sydney and its surrounding regions during the 19th century.
1885 NSW Troop Deployment to Soudan
The New South Wales Contingent served in Sudan with British forces as part of the Suakin Expedition in 1885. Consisting of an infantry battalion, an artillery battery, and a small field ambulance detachment, it departed from Sydney on 3 March 1885. Arriving at Suakin on 29 March it ultimately saw little action, being involved in a minor action at Tamai on 3 April, and another at Takdul on 6 May. However, with the British deciding to abandon the campaign it re-embarked on 17 May and returned to Sydney on 19 June 1885, where it was disbanded. The New South Wales Contingent was the first military contingent to be raised and deployed overseas by an Australian colony.
Wikipedia
1650-1670 Chinese Coin
Coin, China, Post Ming Rebellion, Prince Wu San Kuei, 1650. One Li, 'Currency of Li Yung Mint' (Li Yung T'ung Pao) (CI) (Ping Sing Collection 680).
Powerhouse Museum
This coin was located in a Sydney park close to the CBD. Possibly made it’s way to Australia via a traveller arriving from China so as to make their way to the gold fields.
WW2 50Cal Ft41 Cartridge
The Bombing of Darwin, also known as the Battle of Darwin, on 19 February 1942 was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australia. On that day, 242 Japanese aircraft, in two separate raids, attacked the town, ships in Darwin Harbour and the town's two airfields in an attempt to prevent the Allies from using them as bases to contest the invasion of Timor and Java during World War II.
Darwin was lightly defended relative to the size of the attack, and the Japanese inflicted heavy losses upon Allied forces at little cost to themselves. The urban areas of Darwin also suffered some damage from the raids and there were a number of civilian casualties. The two Japanese air raids were the first, and largest, of more than 100 air raids against Australia during 1942–1943. Wikipedia
This relic was located at East Point, Darwin and would have been used to defend Darwin against Japanese attacks.
Australian Military Rising Sun
The Rising Sun badge, also known as the General Service Badge or the Australian Army Badge, is the official insignia of the Australian Army, and is mostly worn on the brim of a slouch hat or, less frequently, on the front of a peaked cap for Army personnel filling certain ceremonial appointments. The badge is readily identified with the spirit of ANZAC, the legend of the Australian soldier (or "digger"), and the esprit de corps of the Army itself, due to its association with the landings at Gallipoli in 1915. Today, new recruits receive the badge with their initial issue of equipment, which happens within their first three days of enlistment.- Wikipedia
This relic was located in Dapto, NSW. I was most probably dropped by a member of the 11th Light Horse before their deployment to Gallipoli.
Colonial Inn Barrel Tap
A beer tap is a valve, specifically a tap, for controlling the release of beer. While other kinds of tap may be called faucet, valve or spigot, the use of tap for beer is almost universal. The word was originally coined for the wooden valve in traditional barrels. Beer served from a tap is largely known as draught beer, though beer served from a cask is more commonly called cask ale, while beer from a keg may specifically be called keg beer. Beer taps can be also used to serve similar drinks like cider or long drinks.
There are many different types and styles of beer or keg taps.
Originally the word referred to a solid wood stopper used to plug the hole in a barrel, so as to contain the contents. The shape was identical to a taproot, from which the name derived.
The word was originally coined for the wooden valve in traditional barrels.
Wikipedia
Victorian Silver Threepence Charm
Small silver coins repurposed as bracelets have a practical history deeply rooted in resourcefulness. Historically, people utilised these coins due to their size, making them suitable for crafting wearable accessories. Their malleability allowed for ease of manipulation into bracelet forms.
This trend often emerged in times of economic hardship when individuals sought creative ways to make the most of limited resources. Small silver coins, no longer serving their original purpose, became a readily available and affordable material for crafting personal adornments.
In many cultures, the repurposing of coins into bracelets also held sentimental value, transforming ordinary currency into cherished, personalised accessories. This practice reflects a timeless tradition of repurposing and finding value in the ordinary, turning currency into something both practical and meaningful.
This was located in a Sydney park as a surface find next to a busy path.
A Handful Of Silver
Dive into the heart of Country New South Wales, Australia, where our metal detecting journey led to a striking find – an abundance of silver coins in a remote field. Spending over 20 hours at this location, the coins emerged from the earth, each bearing untold stories of the past.
Situated four hours away, our drive to this secluded spot adds an adventurous touch to our quest. This image encapsulates the practical essence of our exploration – the dedication to scanning every inch of the countryside field, resulting in a collection that reflects a historical tapestry.
Join us in unraveling the stories behind these silver coins, connecting with history through each discovery. This snapshot captures not only our findings but also the genuine excitement and connection forged with the hidden narratives beneath the surface.