NEW BOOK: DISCOVERING VIRGINIA’S COLONIAL ARTIFACTS

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V20 2017 INDEX E-SYLUM ARCHIVE

The E-Sylum: Volume 20, Number 42, October 15, 2017, Article 4

At reader Don Hartman's suggestion, author Bill Dancy forwarded information about his new book on Colonial Virginia artifacts. The book covers coins that have been discovered by Dancy in his metal-detecting pursuits around the state. Collectors, archeologists and metal detectorists don't always see eye-to-eye on the topic, but the coins themselves are fascinating to all. -Editor

This book, entitled Discovering Virginia's Colonial Artifacts - A Comprehensive Guide to Recovery, Identification and Preservation, is 400 pages in length and packed with nearly 1000 color photos of 16th thru 18th century artifacts the author has personally recovered over the last 20+ years along with many quality post-colonial finds that randomly turn up at early sites. It’s believed to be the first of its kind in this subject matter area to hit the market. But don’t be misled by the title as this is a must-have not only for colonial enthusiasts, but for all novice and veteran relic hunters as well as it covers a wide range of pertinent topics including research methods, how to secure permission, reading and searching sites, finding and excavating trash pits, artifact cleaning, preservation, documentation and display, ethics, and much more.

It basically doubles as both a “how-to” manual as well as a colonial artifact “encyclopedia” covering all major categories to help more precisely identify and date your finds. It also contains 40 sidebars scattered throughout the book that expand on various topics of interest plus a listing of “Suggested Resources” at the end of most chapters that identifies other publications, websites, technical papers, etc, for additional reading if desired. The book also includes nine appendices to provide supplemental material. It’s also printed in all color on high quality, glossy stock and is contained within a heavy and attractive hardcover.

Anyone that may be interested in purchasing a copy can contact the author directly at bdancy97@charter.net, or it can be purchased via PayPal by clicking on https://www.paypal.me/ColonialArtifacts. The book is $59 + $5 shipping (continental US only), and the author will sign any copies as requested (he’s selling all books at this time from his home).