FINGER RING

An incomplete silver signet 'seal matrix' finger-ring of probable early post-medieval date (c. 1500-1600). Most of the hoop is now missing; the breaks are relatively old.
The bezel is circular and depicts a squirrel standing right while pulling a spherical nut from a branch. Flanking the edge of the bezel is a deep groove within which are further short diagonal grooves, presumably imitative of a cable design. In front of the squirrel is a grooved I. Another is behind, perhaps with part of another next to it.
The hoop is D-shaped in cross section, being flat to the inside surface. The shoulder above the squirrel has a grooved tau cross while the other shoulder bears a grooved X, the breaks on both sides being just beyond these designs (the thickness of the hoop below the tau cross is 2.8mm and below the 'X' is 2.4mm).
The bezel measures 16.3mm x 15.1mm with a thickness of 4.7mm. The weight of the ring is 13.16g. It measures 26.8mm in length and has an estimated original diameter of c.28mm (internal c.23-34mm).
The squirrel was a common depiction on medieval seal matrices and also appears on harness pendants, finger-ring and tokens. Use of the tau might signify devotion to St Anthony, who was recognised by this symbol.
For rings of similar form that have been recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme and reported under the Treasure Act, see for instance NMGW-2663CB, 12.14, dated 1460-1600; NMGW-02EBA6, 14.8, dated 1400-1550; and SWYOR-D65248, 2011 T265, dated 1450-1500.