A 17th century gold ring believed to commemorate a member of a prominent historical family is now on public display after being found in Shropshire.
The post-medieval artefact, dated to 1680, was discovered near Ellesmere by a metal detectorist in April and is now being exhibited at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery.
It is believed to have been made in memory of Vincent Corbet, the second baronet of Morton Corbet, who died of smallpox on February 4, 1680.
Amanda Jones, marketing director at law firm Lanyon Bowdler, said: "The ring was a major find that was reported as potential treasure two years ago.
"It is in excellent condition considering its age."
The ring went on display thanks to sponsorship from Lanyon Bowdler.
Ms Jones said: "The museum provides an amazing service through its displays and exhibitions but financial support is needed to ensure exhibits like this ring can go on show to the public.
"Lanyon Bowdler is delighted to support the museum through sponsorship which has helped this exhibit go on display.
"We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to take in the culture and stories of our past by getting up close and personal with wonderful artefacts like this."
Mourning rings were popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, often given out at funerals as a way for loved ones to remember the deceased.
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Councillor Alex Wagner, Shropshire Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and economic growth, said: "Research by our curatorial team suggests that the ring commemorates Vincent Corbet, second baronet of Morton Corbet who died of smallpox on 4 February 1680.
"The Corbet family is one of Shropshire’s oldest and most influential families making this a significant item for the county.
"The Shropshire Museum Service is extremely grateful to Lanyon Bowdler for their help in keeping such remarkable objects in the public domain."
The gold ring is inscribed with 'V:C: ob: 4 feb: 80. Aeta: 38,' which includes Vincent Corbet’s initials, the date of his death, and his age.
The word 'ob' stands for obituary, an archaic term for death used between the 14th and 17th centuries.
Decorated with black enamel, the ring is exceptionally well preserved, retaining much of its original detailing despite being buried for centuries.
Conservation experts said the surviving enamel offers a rare glimpse of how the ring would have appeared when first made.
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