I'm reading a book by a "mudlark" (a "mudlark" is a hobbyist who scavenges in river mud for items of value), she mentions this database. I thought it might be of interest.
The Portable Antiquities Scheme's database holds records of archaeological finds discovered by members of the public. These are found while carrying out a wide range of activities including metal-detecting. Our first record was made in 1998, the half-million mark was reached in March 2010, and our millionth object, a Roman coin from the Seaton hoard, was recorded in September 2014.