History Extra Podcast: "Magic Beakers & Roman Helmets: Artefacts That Shaped History"

Release Date: June 29, 2025

The History Extra Podcast, produced by Immediate Media, delves deep into the fascinating narratives of our past, bringing to life gripping stories and insightful conversations with leading historical experts. In the episode titled "Magic Beakers & Roman Helmets: Artefacts That Shaped History," hosts Michael Lewis and Ian Richardson from the British Museum discuss their collaboratively authored book, Beneath Our Feet: Everyday Discoveries Reshaping History. This episode, released on June 29, 2025, offers a compelling exploration of how everyday artefacts discovered by metal detectorists and the public have significantly enhanced our understanding of Britain's rich historical tapestry.

Introduction to "Beneath Our Feet"

At the outset (02:00), David Musgrove introduces the podcast, highlighting the pivotal role that amateur metal detectorists play in uncovering Britain's hidden past. Michael Lewis and Ian Richardson, both esteemed members of the British Museum, present their book, which chronicles remarkable everyday finds—from a Bronze Age cup imbued with mystical qualities to a rare Roman cavalry helmet. The conversation emphasizes the importance of these discoveries in reshaping historical narratives and the function of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) in cataloging these artefacts.

The Ringlemere Cup: A Bronze Age Marvel

One of the standout artefacts discussed is the Ringlemere Cup, a Bronze Age object discovered by metal detectorist Cliff Bradshaw (03:35). Michael Lewis paints a vivid picture of the cup's discovery and significance:

"When he found it, he knew it wasn't Anglo Saxon, but he didn't know straight away that it was Bronze Age... It generates such heat which gives it even now, this sort of magical feeling." (05:30)

The cup, made of solid gold, exhibits an intriguing blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern-esque uniformity, leading Michael to speculate it may have served a ceremonial purpose, akin to a precursor of the Christian communion cup. The conversation underscores the cup's 'magical' properties, both literally in its heat conduction and metaphorically in its historical significance. Ian Richardson adds:

"So when you pick it up, it kind of feels warm to the touch." (06:18)

This warmth, a result of the metal's heat conduction, adds to the artefact's mystique, evoking a sense of ancient rituals and communal gatherings.

Crosby Garrett Helmet: A Roman Cavalry Rarity

Transitioning to Roman Britain, the Crosby Garrett Helmet is examined in detail (09:24). Ian Richardson narrates the helmet's discovery by an anonymous father-son metal detecting duo in Cumbria. Unlike many finds, the helmet wasn't classified as 'treasure' under existing laws, leading the finders to auction it off rather than donate it to a museum. Michael Lewis elaborates on the restoration process and the helmet's original grandeur:

"It would have had a silver face mask and a sort of gold top to it and golden hair. So it would have been super impressive." (11:10)

Despite its display in various exhibitions, the helmet's transition to a private collection sparked controversy, prompting legislative changes to better protect such significant artefacts. This incident played a crucial role in the 2023 amendment to the Treasure Act, ensuring that culturally significant metal objects receive appropriate protection and museum acquisition opportunities.

Tu Valley Hoard: Reflecting Anglo-Saxon Resistance

The discussion then shifts to the Tu Valley Hoard, comprising approximately 2,500 Anglo-Saxon and Anglo-Norman pennies (17:36). Michael Lewis highlights the hoard's composition, including coins from Harold II and William I, and underscores its historical implications:

"It shows how efficient Harold was in minting coinage... It also shows the problems in ensuring these objects enter museum collections." (18:20)

Ian Richardson queries the hoard's significance, to which Michael responds:

"It's indicative of people not returning for their wealth amidst the turmoil following the Norman Conquest." (23:58)

This accumulation of coins not only provides economic insights into the period but also symbolizes the societal upheavals and resistance against William the Conqueror's regime.

Prince Henry Frederick Verval: A Glimpse into 17th Century Falconry

Exploring a different era, Ian Richardson introduces the Prince Henry Frederick Verval, a tiny artefact linked to the first son of James I—Prince Henry Frederick (26:12). This verval, found in North Norfolk, serves as an identification tag for birds of prey used in falconry, a popular pastime among the nobility and gentry. Michael Lewis notes the collection's significance:

"They provide insight into the popularity of falconry among the royal family and gentry, revealing the social practices of the post-medieval period." (31:15)

The artefact's inscription and coat of arms offer precise dating and attribution, exemplifying how such small objects can illuminate broader social and cultural practices of their time.

Impact of the Portable Antiquities Scheme on British History

As the conversation concludes, Michael Lewis emphasizes the transformative impact of the Portable Antiquities Scheme:

"Nowadays I don't think it's possible for anyone studying archaeological finds or the archaeological landscape to do that without using PAS data." (35:01)

With over 1.8 million artefacts logged, PAS has revolutionized the understanding of Britain's historical and archaeological landscape, facilitating connections between disparate sites and artifacts, and highlighting Britain's extensive trade and communication networks across the globe.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up (36:39), Michael and Ian reflect on how everyday discoveries have not only enriched historical knowledge but also highlighted the collaborative efforts between the public and professionals in preserving heritage. David Musgrove reinforces the significance of their work and the invaluable insights provided by their book, Beneath Our Feet.

"These objects have transformed our understanding of local places and broader historical narratives, fundamentally changing how we perceive Britain's past." (35:01)

For historians, enthusiasts, and casual listeners alike, this episode offers a captivating journey through time, underscored by the enduring legacy of everyday artefacts unearthed by passionate individuals.

Unlocking History Further

Listeners interested in exploring more about the Portable Antiquities Scheme and its role in historical discoveries can access full content and additional interviews at HistoryExtra.com. For a deeper dive, Beneath Our Feet by Michael Lewis and Ian Richardson is available through Thames and Hudson and the British Museum.