BUTTON

Specialist Treasure Report for H.M. Coroner:

2015-T708: A silver post medieval Button from Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire

HM Coroner: Mr Bricknell

District:Herefordshire

Date:Post Medieval: Late 17th Century

Findspot: Ross-on-Wye

Date of discovery: June 2015

Circumstances of discovery: Whilst searching with a metal detector

Description:

A single silver cuff link / button from a pair of silver cuff links. The single cuff link is in very good condition and bears a moulded design of two hearts surmounted by a crown. The underside of the link is almost hollow, there being a pronounced rim on the underside. There is a rectangular (staple shaped) loop soldered on to the reverse of the cuff link, which would have been attached to the opposing cuff link by means of a silver oval loop of wire (now missing).

Dimensions:

Diameter: 13.2mm; thickness of front plate: 1.8mm - loop projects 3.3mm from rear of button and has a thickness of 0.8mm. Weight: 0.64 grams.

Discussion:

Cufflinks and buttons with this design of crowned double hearts are thought to have been produced to commemorate the marriage of Charles II to Catherine of Braganza in 1662, but they continued to be used as a general symbol of love and marriage until the end of the century. As such they are a relatively common find reported through treasure. A close recent example can be seen from Farringdon, Oxfordshire (Bayard 2015). For further information the form and type is outlined by Lewis, M (2013) 'Data Sheet 46, 'Crown and Heart' Buttons and Cufflinks', Finds Research Group AD700-1700.

Statement:

I believe that the precious metal content (silver) of the dress fastener fulfils the requirements of the Treasure Act in that it is greater than 10%.

References:

Byard, A (2015) BERK-6FB1F1: A silver post medieval cuff link from Farringdon, Oxfordshire Web page available at:

https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/record/id/723358 [Accessed: Oct 21, 2015 4:45:48 PM]

Lewis, M. (2013): 'Data Sheet 46, 'Crown and Heart' Buttons and Cufflinks', Finds Research Group AD700-1700

Author:

Peter Reavill

Finds Liaison Officer: Portable Antiquities Scheme