Hanson’s Auctioneers will sell a medieval gold brooch discovered by a metal detectorist.

It was found in the grounds of Kirby Muxloe castle, close to Leicester, UK and bears the inscription “honor et ioie” (“honour and joy”).

Remarkably, it can actually be connected to its former owner.

Kirby Muxloe castle fell into disrepair in the 17th century 

It’s believed Baron William Hastings (1431-1483), who built the castle in 1480, gave it as a gift to his wife. 

That dates it to between 1480 and 1483. 

Hastings supported the House of York during the Wars of the Roses (1455-1485) and was a close friend of Edward IV.

He was executed by Edward’s successor, Richard III, in 1483 – supposedly for treason.  This is a central plot line in Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Part 3.

Auctioneer Charles Hanson said: "It is truly an object of which we would love to ask the question - if it could talk, what could it tell us?

"The brooch, for all its romance from such a turbulent time in British history, gives me goose pimples.

"The heartshaped jewel would only have been worn by the most powerful ladies of the day.

"It is remarkable to think that this may have been a gift to Katherine from William Hastings.

"A true sweetheart brooch which combines with the inscription on the interior to give the hidden message 'Keep honour and joy in your heart'.”

The piece is valued at £6,000-8,000 ($7,814-10,419) ahead of the August 23 sale.

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