7/10/21 Report - Ancient Seal Found by Detectorist Interpreted by Amateur. Florida Natural History Museum.

 

Written by the TreasureGuide for the exclusive use of the Treasure Beaches Report.

Alex Cortez, who has an interest in archaeology but no formal training, read about this seal on twitter and was able to figure out the missing inscription on this badly burned medieval silver seal.

After conducting some research, he found the words on the 12th or 14th century Roman carved-gem seal is from a biblical psalm, which reads, "Declina a Malo, a fac bonum," or in English, "Decline from evil and do good."

The UK's Portable Antiquities Scheme, which was hoping a Latin scholar might be able to decipher the message, said they were "really grateful" for the help of Cortez.

The seal was found by a detectorist in August.

Here is the link for the complete article.

Norfolk seal inscription mystery solved by US man on Twitter - BBC News

Amateurs contribute a lot.  That is especially true with archaeology.  Despite being frequently denigrated by professionals eager to advance their power and careers, it seems detectorists are providing many of the archaeological discoveries these days.  I'd rather have a talented motivated enthusiast than a professional on the  job.  

When the internet is used to allow free and open communication, the combined intelligence of the masses can be applied.  Too bad it is so frequently used for evil rather than good.

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JamminJack visited the Florida Museum of Natural History and said it was overwhelming.  Veterans were admitted free.  For others there was a modest charge.  He said it was overwhelming.  There is so much to see.

That would be a good day trip if you are looking for something interesting to do.  Great for the kids too.

Just to give a few of the many examples that you might find interesting.

Butterfly Exhibits.

You probably aren't as interested in butterflies as I am, but I posted this photo anyway just to give you some idea of how extensive the exhibits are.

You'll find paleontology, archaeology, etc. etc.

Model of Indigenous Village.

If you collect fossil shark teeth, here is a useful identification guide.

Shark Tooth Guide.

Indigenous Artifacts.

That will keep you busy for a while.

Thanks Jack.

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Surf Predictions.
Source: MagicSeaWeed.com.

There is nothing of interest on the National Hurricane Center map right now.

The tides are moderate, and the surf is not very big.

Happy hunting,

TreasureGuide@comcast.net