Post Medieval 'Thames' Farrier's Iron Tool

Comprising four large keys with loop handles and long shanks. 362 grams total, 11.5-15.5 cm



Found on various UK sites since 1974. Property of an Essex collector. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

The bezel with a clasped hands motif with a heart at the centre and elaborate cuffs, narrow D-section hoop; inscribed to the inner face 'No treasure to a true friend' with a long S, worn maker's mark at the end of the inscription, appearing to have the letters 'IV' or IW' in Roman capitals within a simple escutcheon. 2.26 grams, 18.54 mm overall, 16.40 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Found near Burstow, Tanbridge, Surrey, UK, on Monday 1st May 2023; disclaimed with treasure reference 2023 T419. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme report no.SUR-OAA74B. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

If the maker's mark is 'IV' it may correspond to John Vickerman, a goldsmith active in London from 1768 to 1773. Alternatively, if the maker's mark is 'IW' it may correspond to a number of makers: John Williamson, 1650; John Ward, 1660; James Wilkes, 1722; or John White, 1724.

Including tabular, cylindrical, fusiform and other types. 83 grams total, 4-23 mm



Ian Wilkinson collection, Nottinghamshire, UK, formed since 1985. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.