Is saying that you searched for non-archeological objects and just happened to find one a valid defense? Or is it illegal to find archeological objects even if you weren't explicitly searching for them?
However, this law can be interpreted from many angles, as it is difficult to define what is archaeological or not. There are certain associations which defend “leisure detection” as long as it is not located on a registered archaeological or historical site. But their point of view is not shared by archaeologists, who consider that any place can be considered an archaeological site, relegating leisure detection to fine sandy beaches.
In this context, case law says that there are no completely accidental archaeological discoveries with a metal detector.