Medieval Silver Jerusalem Cross Badge

Scaphoid matrix with strap and pierced lug to the reverse; median image of Mary enthroned beneath a canopy with infant Jesus on her lap, sharing a trefoil-headed sceptre; enigmatic dense blackletter legend to the rim; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 26.1 grams, 40 mm



Found Shaw, Wiltshire, UK, before 1974.

Shaw, a village noted in the Domesday survey, recorded a mere three poll-tax contributors in 1377, marking it as the Wiltshire village with the fewest taxpayers at that time. Likely abandoned in the early 15th century, Shaw became associated with Alton (the Alton in Wiltshire, not the one in Hampshire), with its agricultural lands consolidating with those of Alton. Today, one can only speculate about the challenges faced by the 10-20 residents who once called Shaw home.

Formed as a cross-crosslet, the symbol of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, with punched-point border. 2.29 grams, 28 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector on a medieval site in Wiltshire in the mid 1980s.

The 'Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem' was an order of knighthood under the protection of the Pope, formed around 1099 AD by Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, the leader of the First Crusade. It was established for the protection of pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land and was recognised by a Papal Bull in about 1113 AD.

With integral ellipsoid bezel set with a carnelian cabochon. 4.33 grams, 18.91 mm overall, 15.29 mm internal diameter (approximate size British G 1/2, USA 3 1/2, Europe 5.55, Japan 5)

Fine condition.

Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.