In the rolling hills of Powys, Wales, amateur metal detectorists have uncovered a trove of medieval and late medieval treasures that have lain hidden for centuries, offering a dazzling glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in Welsh society from the 9th to the 17th century. These remarkable finds, ranging from gold and silver coins to intricately crafted rings, are rewriting our understanding of medieval culture, craftsmanship, and beliefs. Each discovery tells a story of wealth, war, love, and loss, preserved in the soil until brought to light by determined treasure hunters.
A Glittering Array of Artifacts
The treasures unearthed in Powys include a stunning variety of artifacts, each a window into a different era of Welsh history. Among them are:
Silver-gilt finger ring (Late Medieval period): A finely crafted piece reflecting the elegance of the time.
Silver bar-mount (Medieval period): A small but significant accessory, hinting at medieval fashion.
Gold posy ring (Post-Medieval period): Engraved with heartfelt messages, these rings were tokens of love and remembrance.
Gold finger ring (Post-Medieval period): A testament to the opulence of the era’s elite.
Silver annular brooch (Medieval period): A delicate piece of jewelry showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Silver Tudor coin (Tudor period): A rare find that circulated during a transformative time in British history.
Silver double-hooked fastener (Early Medieval period): A practical yet ornate relic of early medieval life.
Gold coin (Medieval period): A symbol of wealth, buried for safekeeping and never reclaimed.
These artifacts, discovered by hobbyists wielding metal detectors, are more than just objects—they are tangible connections to the people who once held them, offering anthropologists and historians unparalleled insights into medieval Welsh society.
Coins That Speak of Wealth and War
Among the most exciting finds are the coins, each a snapshot of its time. In 2019, three 14th-century gold coins were uncovered in Powys. Valued at 20 shillings—equivalent to 50 days’ wages for a medieval worker—these coins were likely buried to protect them during turbulent times, only to be lost to history until now. Senior curator Nigel Blackamore, speaking to Wales Online, expressed excitement about the rarity of such finds: “Very few gold coins have been discovered within south Powys, so we would welcome the possibility of adding these to the museum’s new medieval displays.”
Another remarkable discovery was a cache of 17th-century coins from the reigns of King James I and King Charles I (1603–1649 AD). Buried during the chaos of the English Civil War, these coins were likely hidden for safekeeping, never to be retrieved by their owners. Similarly, four silver coins from Queen Elizabeth I’s reign (1558–1603), found in 2017, offer a glimpse into the purchasing power of the time. According to the senior curator of Numismatics in Leader Live, a single sixpence from this hoard could have bought three loaves of bread or four gallons of beer—a significant sum for the average person.
The Memento Mori Ring: A Reminder of Mortality
One of the standout discoveries is a gold Memento Mori ring, dated between 1550 and 1650 AD, found in Carreghofa. This hauntingly beautiful ring, engraved with a skull and inlaid with white enamel, carries the Latin inscription that translates to “Remember You Must Die.” Such rings were popular during the Tudor and early Stuart periods, serving as stark reminders of life’s fleeting nature. Dr. Mark Redknap, Deputy Head of Collections and Research at the National Museum Wales, hailed the find in Powys Country Times as “a rare example of a Tudor or early Stuart memento mori ring with a clear Welsh provenance.” This artifact not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also reveals how early modern Welsh society grappled with themes of mortality and remembrance.
The Posy Ring: A Token of Love
Another captivating find is a post-medieval gold posy ring, crafted in the late 17th or early 18th century. Engraved with the poignant phrase “Be Constant to the End,” this ring was likely a gift between lovers, symbolizing devotion and fidelity. Its romantic inscription has drawn comparisons to the iconic ring in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, capturing the imagination of those who view it. Posy rings, often exchanged as tokens of affection, offer a deeply personal glimpse into the emotional lives of their owners.
Beyond Powys: A Wider Treasure Hunt
The discoveries in Powys are part of a broader wave of finds across Wales and England. In 2018, a Bronze Age ring was unearthed in Suffolk, while in 2017, a silver medallion bearing the profile of Charles I and the Order of the Garter motto—“Honi soit qui mal y pense” (Shame on him who thinks evil of it)—was found in Brecon, Wales. These discoveries highlight the critical role of amateur metal detectorists in uncovering history that might otherwise remain buried.
A Treasure Trove for Museums and the Public
The Y Gaer Museum and the National Museum Wales are eager to acquire these treasures for their collections, recognizing their immense historical and cultural value. Centre Manager Saffron Price told Wales Online, “It would be wonderful to have these coins within the museum’s collection and to put them on display for the public to enjoy.” By preserving and showcasing these artifacts, museums aim to share the stories of medieval Wales with future generations, bringing the past vividly to life.
A Legacy Unearthed
The medieval treasures of Powys, uncovered by the keen eyes and steady hands of amateur detectorists, are more than relics—they are portals to a bygone era. From gold coins buried in times of strife to rings that speak of love and loss, these finds illuminate the lives of the wealthy and the beliefs that shaped their world. As these artifacts find their way into museums, they invite us all to marvel at the hidden history beneath our feet, waiting to be discovered