From what I understand, the British govt sets a value on “treasure” pieces found by its citizens, then offers the finder approx 50% of the value of the piece and the govt keeps the piece. Actually quite a fair policy.
I understand that for “treasure” (Roman coins, antiquities, etc) but I am willing to bet they have a different take on stuff that is actually “royal.”
I would to see the guy make out from this. 50% of a ton, is pretty good!
As I understand it, ‘treasure trove’ is something that has been hidden as opposed to just lost. Treasure trove belongs to the Crown. The local coroner makes the decision as to what constitutes treasure trove. But the government wisely offers full value for any treasure it chooses to keep for itself (usually local museums). But something that actually belonged to a monarch, like a crown or bits thereof may be something different entirely.