Each dataset required a measure of cleaning and enhancement in order to standardise data entry, check for any inaccuracies and delete any unwanted data. In both cases it was necessary to reduce the full datasets downloaded to those objects that fell within the period of interest (AD 700-1000) of the VASLE project. This involved the deletion of most pre-AD 700 entries such as gold tremisses and thrymsas (EMC) and of those objects classified as 'early Anglo-Saxon' (PAS). The chronology of a number of artefacts, however, such as Geake's (1997, 79) small, simple buckles, spans the turn of the 8th century. Similarly, the early sceattas issued in the final quarter of the 7th century are better considered part of the cultural repertoire of the 'long 8th century' than of an earlier period. Such groups were kept within the database.
On the basis of this work it was then possible to make some broad national comparisons before going onto the more detailed regional discussion.
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Last updated: Tues Apr 21 2009