An amateur treasure hunter discovered a medieval ring in the heart of Robin Hood’s Sherwood Forest, which might be worth up to £70,000.
Mark Thompson, who makes living painting forklift trucks, had only been in the famous Nottinghamshire woodland for 20 minutes when his metal detector went off.
The 34-year-old, who had just been doing this for 18 months, was hoping to locate something benign, such as lost money or trash left behind by vacationers.
However, when he shoveled away at the soil, he noticed a sparkle of gold, and after removing the surrounding dirt, he discovered an intricate piece of jewelry with a valuable sapphire encrusted on it.
Mr. Thompson has reported the find, which is currently being investigated as part of a treasure hunt that he believes will result in a windfall for him.
He’s had it appraised by auctioneers, who estimate it to be worth between £20,000 and £70,000.
Mr. Thompson stated, ” “When I heard the signal, I had been out metal detecting with a group for about 20 minutes.
“I was ecstatic when I discovered it was gold, but I had no idea how significant it could be at the time.
“I summoned a friend, who came down to take a look and assist in the search for anything else connected in the area.
“That’s a once-in-a-lifetime find; I never anticipated to come across something like it.
“When I think about it, I’m still stunned; it was such an incredible experience.
“If it turns out to be as valuable as we believe, it will fundamentally transform my life.
“Right now, I’m renting, and I’d love to be able to buy a house or move into a more comfortable environment.”
The ring is being tested at the British Museum, according to Dot Boughton, a regional discoveries liaison officer, and the matter has been sent to the coroner so it can be legally classified as treasure.
The ring, which has an infant Christ on one side and a female saint on the other, is thought to be from the 14th century.
Ms. Boughton’s assessment on the ring matches the stone to one found on the tomb of William Wytlesey, the former Archbishop of Canterbury who died in 1374.
Mr. Thompson is now waiting for the coroner to schedule an inquest to determine whether or not the ring is valuable.
If it is, experts will value it and museums will be able to purchase it. As the finder, Mr. Thompson will be rewarded.
Another amateur treasure hunter recently won a five-figure amount for unearthing a valuable Tudor ring in North Yorkshire.