Small finds is an archaeological term for artifacts discovered on excavations which are somewhat special compared with the common finds for that type site or type phase on multi phasic sites. The special nature of the find is dictated by research agendas and the information the artifact can provide. Examples of the increased importance of small finds over other finds would be coins being often thought of as small finds whereas pottery sherd as just finds. The reason is coins can be much more specific when it comes to dating evidence. Small finds are usually treated differently in the recording system; often they are recorded on plan rather than being attributed to a single context like other generic finds.
Small find discrimination has in recent years fallen out of favor. Critics state[weasel words] the special treatment criteria are increasingly never met and finds often just get parceled off site with no greater distinction in location than generic finds. Moreover the assessment of what data can be gathered from such finds is often better made by specialists post excavation. Counter arguments center around the notion the demise of small find discrimination practice is the result of development-led practice.[citation needed]
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