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Tuesday, 6th May 2008 (3731 views)

A metal detector enthusiast from Coventry is celebrating after unearthing a gold ring dating back to the 15th century, according to reports.

The Coventry Telegraph states that amateur treasure hunter Wayne Burton made his discovery while prospecting for buried artefacts in Leicestershire.

The gold ring is believed to be English, although it is inscribed with the French phrase mon cuer avez - which means have my heart - the newspaper says.

It adds that the piece has been declared Treasure Trove belonging to the Crown.

Mr Burton told the publication: "The British Museum experts are now valuing the ring, and it seems likely a museum in Leicester will want to buy it to put on show."

If the purchase goes ahead, Mr Burton added that he expects to receive around £900 for the ring, which he will split with the owner of the land where he found it.

However, he told the newspaper: "Nobody really does metal detecting for the money. For me the real thrill is putting your hand on history."

Most metal detectors can only pick up metals buried around a foot below the ground, although a single prospector once used one to unearth a 156-ounce gold nugget in the Southern California desert.

 

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