Successive UK Governments have persisted in maintaining the archaic nonsense of Treasure Trove. This paper demonstrates the unsuitability of a medieval Royal Prerogative for protecting our archaeological heritage, and goes on to outline a more effective system. This rejects the principle of animus revertendi and concentrates on the protection of portable antiquities in its own right. It advocates a system of statutory reporting and certification, coupled with a policy of acquisition in the public interest.