Archaeological Microsampling by Means of Sediment Coring at Submerged Sites

This paper discusses a microsampling technique using a low‐technology, diver‐assisted percussion coring device that was developed for minimally invasive testing of underwater archaeological sites in turbulent environments, specifically in West Africa. The simple and cost‐effective technique is useful across a range of scales including shipwreck sites and larger regions, providing insights into the micro‐ and macro aspects of submerged sites, including site formation processes. A brief case study of its use on a historical shipwreck site is presented that highlights its efficacy as a data‐collection technique used independently or in tandem with more traditional investigative methods such as excavation.