17th Century - Gold Posy Ring > Lot No. 597

Description:
Circa 17th century AD. A finger ring inscribed internally in script 'God a lone made us to One' with initials in capitals (apparently added later) 'W M E' indicating the surname initial 'M', the husband's initial 'W' and the wife's initial 'E' set in a triangle, in the style frequently seen on token farthings of 17th century date; the maker's mark 'NL' within a rectangular cartouche perhaps for a London silversmith recorded with this mark for the year 1692-3.

Measurements:
22.30 mm x 4.34 mm; 5.59 grams; internal diameter 19 mm.

Condition:
Very fine, with some slight distortion to the band and a few minor nicks and scratches to the edges. Eminently wearable and easily refinished.

References:
For the motto - Evans, p. 39; for the maker - Jackson, 1921 edition, p. 148.

Provenance:
Ex English collection; bought at Cumberland Coin Fair, 1980s.

Export licence:
No

Estimate: £400 - 500 (EUR 480 - 600; USD 630 - 790)

Auction date: Friday 19th March 2010 at The Swedenborg Hall 20-21 Bloomsbury Way
London WC1A 2TH

Sold for: £700