| Type | Ancient artifact |
| Object | SCP-1323 |
| Recovered by | |
| Current status | Under extensive study by the SCP Foundation |
| Place of origin | |
| Anomalous properties | Ability to subtly influence cognition and behavior of those in contact |
SCP-1323 was first discovered in 2014 by a joint Chinese and American archaeological expedition excavating a remote, long-buried site in the Gobi Desert of Inner Mongolia. The expedition uncovered a small chamber containing a number of artifacts, including the anomalous object now designated SCP-1323.
The site and all recovered artifacts were immediately secured by agents of the SCP Foundation, who transported SCP-1323 and other items of interest to one of the organization's containment facilities for further study. Initial containment protocols were established to minimize exposure and potential risks posed by the object.
SCP-1323 is a small, polished stone tablet measuring approximately 6 inches (15 cm) in length, 4 inches (10 cm) in width, and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in thickness. The tablet appears to be composed of an unidentified gray-green stone with a smooth, glossy finish. No visible seams, joints or inscriptions are present on the surface.
Detailed analysis has revealed that the tablet exhibits a number of anomalous properties:
The exact origins and original intended purpose of SCP-1323 remain unknown. Extensive archaeological research and theoretical modeling suggests the tablet may be a relic of a highly advanced, long-extinct civilization predating recorded human history.
Some researchers have proposed the artifact may have been used as a tool for psychic or mind-control applications, while others speculate it could be a component of a larger, as-yet undiscovered technological system. Ongoing studies continue to yield new insights, but significant gaps remain in the understanding of SCP-1323's true nature and origins.
Experiments have shown that when placed in close proximity to human subjects, SCP-1323 can subtly influence their thoughts, emotions and decision-making processes in ways that are not easily detectable. Subjects often report feelings of compulsion, uncanny intuition, or a heightened sense of focus and determination when in the presence of the artifact.
In some cases, prolonged or intensive exposure has also been linked to more extreme effects, including dissociative episodes, vivid hallucinations, and even temporary alterations of personality and identity. The SCP Foundation has designated SCP-1323 as a potential psychoactive or mind-altering anomaly, and extreme caution is advised when handling or studying the object.
SCP-1323 is currently housed in a secured, temperature and humidity controlled containment chamber at Site-19. Access to the artifact is highly restricted, and all personnel who come into contact with it are closely monitored for any signs of anomalous effects.
Ongoing research efforts aim to better understand the nature, origins and potential applications of SCP-1323 through a variety of scientific and theoretical approaches. Areas of focus include materials analysis, neurological and psychological studies, and attempts to decipher any encoded information or functionality within the artifact itself.
However, the mysteries surrounding SCP-1323 remain deep and perplexing. The full scope of its powers and capabilities, as well as its relationship to the lost civilization that created it, continue to elude the researchers of the SCP Foundation. Further insights may require new breakthroughs in technology, archaeology or even parapsychology to unravel.
