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In five short reports, Evan Davis talks to curators from the British Museum about the final contenders for the 100th object of Neil MacGregor's landmark series, A History Of The World In 100 Objects.

Of this shortlist, one will be the object chosen by Neil MacGregor and the British Museum to represent 2010 and will be revealed live on Ö÷²¥´óÐã Radio 4's Today programme on 14 October.

To qualify the contenders must, in some way, tell the story of the challenges and ingenuity of the modern world, as it is today, to future generations. All five contenders have been acquired in 2010 by the British Museum.

Evan Davis says: "The last time I was in the British Museum talking about A History Of The World In 100 Objects it was for the Today programme and it was shortly before the first episode was aired on Radio 4.

"Now, almost a year, and 90 episodes, later, I'm here again – this time to see the 100th object. It's hugely exciting to be involved in this project at both the beginning and end of this fascinating series."

Notes to Editors

Broadcast details:

A History Of The World – The Contenders
Broadcast on 8, 9, 11, 12 and 13 October at 9.02am on Radio 4

A History Of The World In 100 Objects
Broadcast Monday to Friday at 9.45am on Radio 4.

The final episode of the series in which Neil and contributors focus on the 100th object will be broadcast on 22 October.

Today – Final reveal of 100th object
Broadcast 14 October at 7.45am on Radio 4.

Alongside the Radio 4 series, the A History Of The World website has invited the public to submit their own objects that tell a story of their personal histories.

The suggestions for the 100th object can be found at bbc.co.uk/ahistoryoftheworld or #objectoftoday on Twitter.

SD