Towton torcs

The Towton torcs are a pair of gold bracelets from Towton, North Yorkshire, England, dating from the later Iron Age.

Discovery

The torcs were found by metal detectorists in a stream in 2010 and 2011.

Description

Both torcs are gold alloys and formed from a twisted wire with looped terminals. The first torc discovered comprised a twisted wire of two strands, the second had four strands. The first torc measured in diameter, weighed 67.7g. It had a metal content of 80-84% gold; 12-14% silver; and at least 4% copper.

Acquisition and display

After being declared as treasure, the Yorkshire Museum launched a public funding campaign to raise the £60,000 required to purchase the torcs. The torcs were acquired by the museum in November 2013.