800-year-old ring found in muddy field could fetch £18k at auction

11 Mar 2025 • 8:11 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A rare, jeweled medieval bishop's ring, dating back to the late 12th or early 13th century, was discovered in a muddy field in Shipdham, Norfolk, by a metal detectorist.
  • The ring, found by retired firefighter Mark Sell in November 2019, is in pristine condition with all original jewels intact.
  • It will be auctioned at Noonans Mayfair in London on March 26, with an estimated value between £15,000 and £18,000.
  • The British Museum temporarily displayed the ring, and Norwich Castle Museum expressed interest in acquiring it.
  • Proceeds from the sale will be split between Mr Sell and the landowner.

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