Ancient Coins and Antiquities

Celtic, bronze and iron linch pin, c. 1st century AD, 137mm x 24mm; remains of iron central shank which is fitted at the top with a bronze open ring or terret with a bulbous collar; at the bottom is a bronze lip-type foot. Northern Britain type. Bronze very fine with a green patina, iron rusted but still intact. £400-£600

found in Gargrave, North Yorkshire, in 2005 (PAS LANCUM-AB6320)

A linch pin was used to fasten a wheel to the axle of a chariot and prevent the wheel from becoming loose. Julius Caesar noted how two-wheeled open chariots pulled by horses played a significant role in warfare in Iron Age Britain. Over 21 chariot burials from Yorkshire have now been discovered, suggesting a symbolic role in the afterlife.