15th-Century “Blood of Christ,” St. Margaret Rings found by Metal Detectorist in North Yorkshire
Discovery photographs
A semi-retired architect and regular metal‑detectorist from North Yorkshire discovered two rare 15th‑century gold rings in fields near Northallerton, each found just months apart, and both are now heading to auction at Noonans Mayfair. The first, an enamelled “Blood of Christ” ring valued at £5,000–£7,000, reflects medieval devotional practices tied to Christ’s wounds and may have historical links to the Corpus Christi Guild at York. The second, depicting St. Margaret of Antioch and estimated at £4,000–£6,000, was traditionally associated with childbirth and features iconography rooted in her legendary escape from a dragon. Riley plans to use his share of the proceeds for an interrailing trip to Italy.
Those four are for England and Wales, where the Portable Antiquities Scheme records finds and the Treasure Act decides what must be reported.
Scotland runs its own system, and every find is reportable there — not only treasure. Treasure Trove Unit ›
The Republic of Ireland is different again, and severely so. Searching for archaeological objects without the Minister’s written consent is a criminal offence carrying fines or imprisonment, and the definition is broad enough to cover coins, buttons and buckles of almost any age. Do not assume British rules travel with you. The law, from the National Museum ›
Northern Ireland is stricter still. The Treasure Act applies and finds go to National Museums NI within fourteen days, but any searching that involves digging — metal detecting expressly included — needs a licence, and licences are only granted for archaeological projects. National Museums NI ›
This site covers discoveries from all over the world, and so does the variation in the law — from a recording scheme that thanks you, to a criminal offence. Wherever you are searching, find out what applies there before you go, not after.
