Lot 148a, Auction 4/3/2026: 15th C. English Medieval Gold Ring – Arm & Sword Crest

$2,795.00

In stock

Northern Europe, England, Late Medieval period, ca. 15th century CE. A richly expressive gold signet ring whose modest scale carries the weight of identity, trust, and authority, this 15th century English example presents an octagonal bezel engraved with a bold heraldic device. At its center appears the arm and sword crest – an armored arm embowed, grasping a sword upright – cut with confident, economical lines well suited to repeated sealing. Above the shield device, a star and crescent moon motif is delicately incised, introducing an additional layer of meaning. Such celestial symbols were commonly associated with guidance, fortune, or personal distinction, and may also serve as a merchant mark or secondary identifier rather than a strictly noble device. In this context, the imagery could point to ownership by a prosperous merchant or civic figure whose authority was rooted in trade, contracts, and reputation as much as lineage. Size: 1″ L x 0.9″ W (2.5 cm x 2.3 cm); gold quality: 76.4% (about 18.3 karats); weight: 11 grams; US ring size: 6.75

The ring is formed with a tapering hoop that rises smoothly to the bezel, its shoulders subtly modeled to frame the engraved face. Light tool marks and gentle wear soften the gold surface, evidence of long use rather than neglect, suggesting the ring functioned as a working seal as well as a personal emblem. When impressed into wax, the design would have produced a clear and reliable mark, essential for validating documents, correspondence, and commercial agreements. Signet rings of this type occupied a vital place in late medieval society, serving knights, officials, and merchants alike. This example reflects that broader social world, where personal symbols carried legal force, and gold signets bridged the realms of commerce, authority, and daily life in 15th century England.

Please note that the ovoid shape of the band may cause the listed US ring size to vary slightly from standard circular sizing.

Condition: Intact, excellent, and wearable with impressively preserved detail.

Provenance: private London, United Kingdom collection; ex-German Art Market; ex-private Swiss collection, formed in the 1990s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.