Medieval brooch found in Shropshire hills is declared treasure

Patrick Edwards from Clee Hill was out exploring with his metal detector earlier this year at Cleobury Mortimer, when he came across a gold annular brooch.

The brooch was examined by experts at the British Museum, and was officially declared as treasure by coroner for Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin John Ellery at an inquest at Shirehall on Tuesday.

Mr Ellery told the inquest that on finding the brooch, Mr Edwards went down the appropriate channels, and the brooch was examined by experts.

A report from finds liaison officer for Herefordshire & Shropshire Peter Reavill was read out at the inquest by Mr Ellery. He said the brooch was from the medieval times, and dated back to between 1250AD and 1400.

The expert said in his report: "A number of similar gold brooches have been reported as potential treasure in the past 20 years and share common attributes.

"Similar pieces in public collections are held in the British Museum, dated to late 13th and 14th century."

Describing the gold ring brooch, Mr Reavill said it was engraved with the words 'Je Svi Ye Se', which experts said translated into 'This is a loyal gift', or 'I am loyal'.

The criteria for something to be declared treasure by a coroner is for it to be over 300 years old and more than 10 per cent gold.

In his report, Mr Reavill said he was satisfied that the item fulfilled the requirements of the Treasure Act 1996.

Mr Ellery concluded: "This definitely meets the criteria, so I can record that this gold brooch is treasure."