Metal detectorist in awe after unearthing 18th century gold mourning ring worth a fortune
Malcolm Weale, 53, found the ring in a field near Thetford, Norfolk, England, on August 9, 2024, and said he was 'shaking' as the gold shone in the sunlight.
A metal detector enthusiast was amazed when a gold mourning ring he discovered from the 18th century was declared a treasure.
Malcolm Weale, 53, found the ring in a field near Thetford, Norfolk, England, on August 9, 2024, and was 'shaking' as it sparkled in the sunlight.
The piece of jewelry is thought to be a memorial ring for Sir Bassingbourne Gawdry - the 3rd Baronet of Harling - who passed away in 1723. Sir Bassingbourne Gawdry also served as a Member for Norfolk in 1601. This month, the ring was declared a treasure at Norfolk Coroner's Court and has been sent to the British Museum for valuation.
The potential worth of the ring remains unknown, with Mr. Weale describing it as 'one-of-a-kind'.
Mr. Weale, an East Anglia resident, shared: "I found it in a small little paddock where I'd been detecting for 18 months. I'd already found a few medieval coins.
"It was six inches down and I dug a little careful plug out and looked in the hole.
"The sun was out and it was shining in beautiful bright pure gold. It was exactly like the day it was dropped on the ground.
"I was shaking - it is a form of time travel.
"Instantly you're back to the 1700s or the Roman times.
"It is one of only two things I have found in my detecting career with a name on it.
"You don't often find anything with a human connection."
The professional metal detectorist revealed that his fascination with what could be beneath the ground began when he was just seven years old.
Speaking on his lifelong passion for uncovering hidden treasures, he shared: "Since I could walk I was always digging holes."
Reminiscing about his early start, he chuckled, "My grandad bought me a metal detector and I dug up his garden like a bowling green - he was annoyed!".
Reflecting on recent successes, he noted, "2024 was a good year as the levels of moisture in the ground were high."
He proudly stated, "It is a unique ring."
Additionally, Mr. Weale made headlines by finding the first and only Viking penny minted for Guthrum, the pioneering Christian Viking king.
