Medieval rings found in England to be auctioned

Andrew Riley, a 71-year-old metal detectorist from near Middlesbrough, England, discovered two 15th-century gold rings in fields near Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

Riley found the rings on farmland after obtaining permission from the landowners, both discoveries occurring within four months of each other. Experts at Noonans Mayfair have identified one ring as the ‘blood of Christ’ ring and the other as an iconographic ring depicting St Margaret of Antioch, a figure associated with childbirth in mythology.

Following the discoveries, a Finds Liaison Officer examined the rings, and a coroner’s court officially declared them treasure. Auctioneers estimate the ‘blood of Christ’ ring will sell for £5,000 to £7,000, and the St Margaret of Antioch ring for £4,000 to £6,000. Riley plans to share the proceeds from the 22 September auction with the landowners. Laura Smith, a jewellery specialist, explained the rings represent both Christian devotion and the dangers women faced during childbirth in medieval times.

Riley cautioned aspiring metal detectorists that his success was due to luck, noting most searches yield only common debris rather than valuable finds. He emphasized that finding treasure depends on chance, regardless of the equipment used.