A remarkable discovery has been declared treasure today, shedding light on Carmarthenshire’s captivating seventeenth-century history.
The find, a post-medieval silver pendant, holds significant historical value, featuring engraved profiles of King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria, crafted by a skilled medallist from the court of the King.
Discovered by Nicholas Davies during a metal detecting excursion in July 2020, this double-sided medallion offers a glimpse into the era of the Stuart monarchy.
One side features the profile of King Charles I, accompanied by a Latin inscription, while the reverse side portrays Queen Henrietta Maria, with an inscription celebrating her regal status. The meticulous craftsmanship, with a suspension loop and ornate detailing, underscores its royal significance.
The pendant bears the stamp of T. Rawlins, a renowned medallist, and engraver in the court of Charles I, reinstated by Charles II after the Restoration.
Such pendants were likely bestowed upon supporters of the King and possibly awarded as medals to those who fought for the royalist cause during the turbulent civil wars of the seventeenth century.
Reflecting on the discovery, Nicholas Davies expressed the awe-inspiring moment of unearthing the silver pendant and pondered over the stories it could unveil. The find serves as a tangible link to the past, igniting curiosity about its origins and the individuals associated with it.
Sian Iles, curator of Medieval and later archaeology at Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, highlighted the pendant’s significance in portraying the contrasting loyalties during the Civil Wars in Wales, emphasizing its role as a symbol of royalist allegiance.
Councillor Hazel Evans, recognizing the collaborative efforts behind the find’s discovery, emphasized its importance in enriching Carmarthenshire’s historical narrative.
The collaboration between metal detectorists PAS Cymru and Amgueddfa Cymru underscores the value of community engagement in preserving and uncovering local history.
The Carmarthenshire Museum has expressed keen interest in acquiring the pendant for its collection, a further testament to its historical significance.
The independent valuation process by the Treasure Valuation Committee will determine its formal acquisition, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
