Print page | Email lot to a friend
Back to previous pageLOT 0418
Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,080
1500-1650 A.D.
3/4 in. (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)).
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.
PROVENANCE:
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.
LITERATURE:
See the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) SWYOR-FA9028 and DUR-23C436, for posy rings of similar form and decoration; see also The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession no.L.2015.72.27, for a posy ring of similar construction.
FOOTNOTES:
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.
TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.




