A fascinating silver seal matrix found in Cornwall may have been a romantic keepsake, capturing the interest of local historians and treasure hunters alike
Cornwall: A cool discovery just happened! A metal detectorist named Chris McLoughlin found a silver seal matrix in Penwith. This little treasure shows two guys in a boat, one with an oar and the other with a fishing net. It’s thought to be a token of love!
This neat find was made on October 6, 2023. Experts say it dates back to between 1500 and 1800 AD. At a treasure inquest in Truro, Cornwall’s finds liaison officer, Laura Miucci, mentioned that the Museum of Cornish Life wants to add it to their collection.
Laura described the seal as a charming piece with a decorative design. She noted that Chris has reported 12 treasures over the last 20 years. That’s quite a track record!
In her report, Laura explained that the oval seal would have had a silver band attached, but it’s missing now. Seals were often used to mark documents, but this one has no writing. It might have been linked to fishing, but it’s likely a personal seal.
Interestingly, it could also be a lovers’ seal, similar to others found across England. Because of its age and the silver content, it’s officially declared a treasure. In Cornwall, treasures belong to the Duchy of Cornwall unless the Crown decides otherwise.
