Category:

Artefact

Find Title:

Ring

Please add a description of your find, add as much detail as possible. Also include the PAS reference number where possible, if it has been added to the database.:

An absolute masterpiece of early medieval heritage: a spectacular, over 1,000-year-old silver-gilt finger ring bearing a continuous, 16-character runic inscription deeply engraved around its outer band. The craftsmanship is breathtaking, retaining stunning visible traces of its original gold gilding over a solid silver substrate. Academic specialists and runologists from the University of Nottingham have confirmed this is not just jewellery, but a monumentally rare epigraphic document. The continuous text, running from left to right, is currently undergoing elite linguistic analysis, with preliminary research indicating it contains a high-status personal name alongside ancient terms for ownership and power. Context & Discovery: Discovered in May 2024 at a depth of 8 inches, this incredible relic triggered a crisp, unmistakable signal. The moment the soil cleared to reveal ancient runes staring back into the sunlight was a lifetime milestone. Recognizing the massive historical weight of the find, the excavation was immediately paused to preserve the archaeological integrity of the site. Precise GPS coordinates were recorded on the spot. The ring was promptly and ethically reported via the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS)