18th-Century Gold Ring Unearthed: A Treasure from the Past!

Quick Smiles:

• A genuine 18th-century gold mourning ring has been unearthed in Norfolk.
• The ring is linked to Sir Bassingbourne Gawdry, the 3rd Baronet of Harling.
• Declared a treasure, it now resides at the British Museum for valuation.

In the serene fields of Norfolk, a remarkable discovery has been made by metal detector enthusiast Malcolm Weale. Last August, while scanning a field, he stumbled upon a dazzling 18th-century gold mourning ring. This find has now been officially recognized as a British treasure.

The ring, believed to be a memorial for Sir Bassingbourne Gawdry, the 3rd Baronet of Harling who passed away in 1723, features an engraving of that very year. Mourning rings were popular during the Georgian Era, often inscribed with the deceased’s name and date of death to serve as a tribute and reminder of loved ones.

Malcolm Weale, a 53-year-old from East Anglia, expressed his excitement about the discovery.

“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.”

The ring, now at the British Museum for valuation, is described by Weale as a “one-of-a-kind” artifact. He discovered it in a small paddock near Thetford, an area where he had previously found medieval coins.

“It is a form of time travel. Instantly you’re back to the 1700s or the Roman times.”

Weale’s passion for metal detecting began at a young age, inspired by his grandfather.

“Since I could walk I was always digging holes. My grandad bought me a metal detector—and I dug up his garden like a bowling green.”

His dedication to the hobby has led to other notable finds, including a Viking penny minted for Guthrum, the first Viking king to embrace Christianity.

“2024 was a good year as the levels of moisture in the ground were high,” he reflected, emphasizing the role of nature in his discoveries.

Malcolm’s story is a testament to the wonders that lie beneath our feet, waiting to be discovered by those with a keen eye and a sense of adventure.

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