14th century gold ring found in Sherwood Forest

A metal detectorist has discovered a 14th century gold ring in Sherwood Forest, the Mail Online reports.

The remarkable piece displays two engravings, one of Christ and another of a saint. A large sapphire is fixed at the crown.

It's since been valued at around £20,000-70,000 ($24,744-86,606).

The ring's finder, Mark Thompson, told the Mail: 'I had been out metal detecting with a group for about 20 minutes when I heard the signal.

"I was really excited when I saw that it was gold, but I didn't realise at that point just how significant it might be.

"I called my friend who came down to take a look and help see whether there was anything else related nearby.

"It's the find of a lifetime - I never expected to unearth anything like that. I'm still in shock when I think about it - it was such an exhilarating moment."

The piece is undergoing tests at the British Museum and, if genuine, will be declared treasure. Mr Thompson will get a share of the proceeds if the ring is sold on.

A gold ring discovered by a metal detectorist achieved £12,000 ($18,261) in an auction in 2013, while more recently a Tudor ring found in a field in Yorkshire achieved an undisclosed five figure sum.

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