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SEAL MATRIX
Unique ID: YORYM-2D982E
Object type certainty: Certain
Workflow
status: Awaiting validation 
A complete copper-alloy double-ended seal matrix of medieval date, c.AD 1250 - 1450. The die of the matrix is circular with a tapering ovate sectioned handle extending from the reverse. The handle flares to a wide lozenge swelling with quatrefoil perforation above which the handle terminates in a second, smaller circular die.
The largest die bears a central motif depicting a large capitalised letter W. Each arm of the W has a transverse bar forming a cross. A circumferential legend is also present which reads: S' CVnRD. DI. CVFMAn. The smaller die depicts the same capitalised letter W with cross terminals.
The metal has a dark black/brown patina and is worn. The seal matrix is 26.2mm tall, the large die is 21.1mm in diameter, the small die is 12.5mm in diameter, the handle is 10.7mm x 3.7mm. It weighs 14.4g.
The form of the matrix coupled with the use of 'DI' in the legend is suggestive of continental origins.
Sealing was used for authenticating documents for around 300 years in medieval Britain. Though initially limited to the higher ranks of the church and state, the use of seals became more general from the 11th century onward and by the end of the thirteenth century tradesmen and peasants also possessed them.
Class:
personal
Sub class: man
Inscription:
S' CVnRD. DI. CVFMAn
Subsequent actions
Subsequent action after recording: Returned to finder
Chronology
Broad period: MEDIEVAL
Period from: MEDIEVAL
Period to: MEDIEVAL
Date from: Circa AD 1250
Date to: Circa AD 1450
Dimensions and weight
Quantity: 1
Length: 26.2 mm
Width: 10.7 mm
Thickness: 3.7 mm
Weight: 14.4 g
Diameter: 21.1 mm
Personal details
This information is restricted for your access level.
Other reference numbers
Other reference: YMT : E05672
Materials and construction
Spatial metadata
Region: Yorkshire and the Humber (European Region)County or Unitary authority: East Riding of Yorkshire (Unitary Authority)
District: East Riding of Yorkshire (Unitary Authority)
Parish or ward: Langtoft (Civil Parish)
Spatial coordinates
4 Figure: TA0267
Four figure Latitude: 54.0888125
Four figure longitude: -0.44208391
1:25K map: TA0267
1:10K map: TA06NW
Grid reference source: From finder
Unmasked grid reference accurate to a 100 metre square.
References cited
No references cited so far.
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Timeline of associated dates
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