i found something! now what do i do?

In the United States, the National Historic Preservation Act and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act work hand in hand to both preserve and claim artifacts found on U.S. soil. These acts spell out what constitutes a historical site or archaeological resource site. For the latter, the site must be at least 100 years old, and remains must be related to past human life or activity. The acts also spell out strict penalties for persons found executing an excavation without a permit.

Legitimate archaeologists are in favor of these kinds of laws because they help protect the integrity of the site. Professionals in the field do not keep, sell or trade artifacts they uncover. Their goal is to record history, plain and simple, and if possible, move the objects as a collection for research and display. Anything found is property of the public, and it's the responsibility of the finder to care for the item for the sake of the public. If you aren't an archaeologist and you happen to stumble upon an artifact in the United States, then you must report your finding. Each state has an office of historical preservation or archaeology, as well as a state archaeologist. They're great resources and the perfect place to start if you find something that has cultural significance.

STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS

What Is an Archeological Artifact?
“Artifacts” are the things that past peoples made, changed, and left behind where they lived and worked. Archeology is the scientific study of past human cultures. Archeologists excavate artifacts from archeological sites.

Leave It Be

Artifacts are not souvenirs! Leave the artifact where you found it. Please don’t pick it up, move it, throw it, put it in your pocket or your bag, or bury it.

Document the Location

Note where you are. Snap a picture of the artifact where you found it. Step back and photograph the artifact with a landmark. Please don’t post them on social media.

Alert a Park Ranger
Show a park ranger your pictures and the location of the artifact. If you cannot find a ranger, use the “Contact Us” form on the park’s website to email the information. Defacing rock images is also illegal. 

Taking Artifacts Is Illegal
Federal law protects archeological sites and artifacts on federal lands. You may not dig, collect artifacts, use metal detectors, or deface rock images in national park units. Violations may result in jail time or fines, as well as confiscation of equipment. See the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) at 16 USC 470 § aa-mm and the associated regulations at 43 CFR 7. Besides, collecting artifacts is not the right thing to do. By leaving artifacts in place, you help to preserve the condition of archeological sites. Keeping sites intact enables archeologists to study the past and share its stories with you. The NPS needs your help to preserve and protect archeological resources for everyone to appreciate.

If You See Something Wrong
Please notify a ranger immediately if you observe someone removing artifacts, damaging sites or rock images, or using metal detecting equipment on park land.

Learn More and Get Involved
Visit our websites to learn more about archeology (www.nps.gov/archeology) and ways to volunteer, intern, and work in parks (www.nps.gov/getinvolved/index.htm).