Hellenistic Style Gold Lunate Pendant

Broadly rectangular in cross-section and constructed from two sheets of gold; the external hoop carrying an etched decorative design comprised of a row of eight-armed stars in relief with a prominent horizontal line connecting the stars; the internal hoop with Latin inscription in block capitals reading '+FORTES FORTVNA IVVAT' translating to 'fortune favours the brave/strong'; straightened. 1.45 grams, 18.86 mm overall, 16.70 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L 1/2, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in Wingham, near Dover, Kent, UK, on Sunday 8th August 2021. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report for Oxfordshire under reference no.KENT-8F86BC. Accompanied by a copy of the report on find of potential Treasure for H M Coroner with reference no.2021T985. Accompanied by a copy of the letter from HM Senior Coroner for Oxfordshire disclaiming the Crown's interest in the find.

The inscription is a Latin proverb used in the play Phormio by Terence in 151 B.C. It is possible that the inscription was intended as a devotion of loyalty and symbol of pride, instead of being given as a symbol of fidelity.

With gold frame and hinged pin; cameo frieze in high relief of two young female busts in profile wearing romantic classical costume, one with flowers and foliage in the hair and the other with a veil and diadem of poppies, perching dove with wings spread below; marked to the reverse in florid script 'No.5' and 'nm / uo 3-17 l. pux'. 19.44 grams, 51 mm high



Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

Restrung necklace of annular beads with interstitial tabular types, the centrepiece a tabular disc pendant. 30.6 grams, 64 cm long



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.