Experts confirm treasure discoveries in Pembrokeshire

After being reviewed by local experts, several recent finds in Pembrokeshire have been determined to be discoveries of actual treasure. Several rings uncovered have been traced back to the 15th and 16th centuries and therefore deemed as “treasure” by the H.M. Coroner of the Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire District.

The artefacts were found over the last two years and were presented to scholars and researchers for examination. Among them was a 15th century silver ring found in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire in the last year, and a late 16th century silver gilt religious ring found in Carew. A post-medieval gold ring was also found in 2013 at Hundleton. In most cases, the rings were found with people using metal detectors on beaches and fields.

“These finds each provide new information about personal adornment circulating at different period in Wales,” said Dr Mark Redknap from the National Museum Cardiff, talking with the BBC.

One of the most special finds was a post-medieval gold mourning ring found in Kidwelly, Carmarthenshire. The ring has a stylised skull on the outside of the hoop. The inner face of the hoop is inscribed with the text “J. A. ob 25 July 98 aeta 37” in italic script – meaning that J. A. died 25th July ..98 aged 37.

"The skull and death head on the Hundleton and Kidwelly rings is a motif which occurs on the earliest mourning rings, dating to the fifteenth century,” Redknap said. “The motif remained popular thought the seventeenth century. As the rings are commemorative, they post-date the date of death, but are likely to have been engraved within a short period."

The Kidwelly ring will now find a home in the Carmarthenshire Museum.

Once settled by the Romans because of the discovery of gold in the region, many would-be treasure hunters have found their luck in Wales. Earlier this summer, a pensioner came upon a trove of medieval treasure when metal detecting in a friend's field. Cliff Massey, 86, found an impressive hoard of three 23 carat gold and 25 silver coins during two separate visits to Iford Edwards' farm near Bronington

Known for its history and pure natural beauty, Pembrokeshire is the ideal location for a cottage holiday. With access to the coast and rugged hills and countryside, the area is a favourite for holidays in the UK.

Image Credit: David Blaikie (flickr.com)