Gold sword ring declared treasure

A seventh century gold sword ring was declared to be treasure at an inquest in Shropshire this week. The ring was found by Craig Mackender who has been a keen detectorist for some four years. He was out detecting with at a rally by the Sovereign Group on 9 September 2021 when he got a distinctive beep. Craig said “The buzz when you find something unique is great – Gold really does come up shiny, as if it had been in the ground for a day“

Emma-Kate Lanyon, curator for Shropshire Council museums service said that the precise purpose of the ring is unclear. The county sat on the border between Wales and Mercia which were often in conflict. Alliances were sealed with the exchange of lavish gifts such as sword rings.

The ring was one of three detecting finds that were declared treasure. Rob Gittins, Shropshire Council cabinet member for culture and digital, said: “Finds like this show how people having been making Shropshire their home since the distant past. All three of these artefacts have a fascinating role in telling our county’s history.” It is hoped that the ring will go on display at Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery.