Find Spot record MAB46530 - WOODSIDE COTTAGE

Copper-alloy heraldic mount dating to around the 17th century, recovered through metal detecting in 2014.

Copper-alloy heraldic mount dating to around the 17th century, recovered through metal detecting in 2014. The object has some edge damage but is roughly circular in plan. There is an embossed central shield is split into quarters. The lower left quarter has a single heraldic charge, likely a harp, which is surrounded by traces of blue enamel. The upper left quarter also has visible blue enamel in the top left corner. The remainder of the shield is heavily worn with some surface pitting, therefore any further heraldic detail is no longer visible. The shield is surmounted by the royal crown, with its cushion detailed in red enamel. A small amount of red enamel is also visible to the left of the shield, suggestive of possible mantling or supporters. The reverse of the mount is plain, except for two small, off-centre depressions which are likely serviced studs or an attachment loop. The presence of the Irish harp and the crown mean the arms are that of the Stuart royal arms (post-1603) - possibly as early as James VI or James I, or as late as Queen Anne. However, the surface corrosion makes identifying a particular monarch uncertain, although the enamel might suggest an earlier, rather than later, date. The function of the object is unclear. The size is rather large for a button and the broken edge may have originally had an attachment loop or rivet hole. The two depressions on the reverse are off-centre, and may be evidence of secondary reuse. The mount weighs 16.6 grams and measures 48 mm long, 44 mm wide, and 2.5 mm thick. Claimed as Treasure Trove (TT 108/19).

Record last edited

Dec 2 2025 3:12PM