NEWLY discovered treasure is to be housed in a local museum.

John Ellery, HM Senior Coroner for Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, ruled in four separate treasure inquests on Tuesday (September 5), all relating to finds in the countryside.

One of the finds was a Roman gold amulet case from 200 and 400 AD which was found in Pontesbury.

A complete post-medieval silver verval and a silver dress hook, which were both uncovered in Stoke on Tern.

Emma-Kate Lanyon, curator for Shropshire Council’s museum and archives service, said: “Whistles like this example are thought to have been used for hunting with dogs or hawks and vervals were worn on a falcon’s leg to identify its owner, a bit like a dog tag and these two objects nicely sum up the importance of hunting as a pastime for the wealthy in Tudor and Stuart times.

“Dress hooks were used to fasten outer garments or to drape up skirts, either to keep them above the muddy streets or to show off the rich fabric of the underskirt. They are often made of precious silver and silver-gilt and are highly decorative.”

“The Roman gold amulet case is the third example to have been discovered in Shropshire. Although nationally a rare find, this example from Pontesbury follows earlier discoveries at Condover and Eaton Constantine.

“This is clear evidence that the Roman troops stationed in Shropshire, included a group of soldiers recruited from Pannonia, a Roman province situated where western Hungary is today. It is fascinating to imagine these men, far from home, wearing this personal reminder of the native culture, homeland and family.”

Robert Macey, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and digital, added: “These are just the most recent objects to illustrate the rich history of the county. Acquiring them will help us share Shropshire’s unique history with our visitors.”

All the finds were reported through the Portable Antiquities Scheme, having been found by responsible metal detecting.