15th Century treasure trove ring on show in museum

A 15th Century gold ring unearthed in an Angus treasure trove has come back home. Relic hunters found a hoard outside Kirriemuir in 2016, including an “unusual” agate stone.

The item has gone through the “treasure trove” process with the authorities and has been returned to the town.

It is now on display at the Gateway to the Glens Museum and staff have given it pride of place in a new exhibition.

Museum officer Rachel Jackson said they were “delighted” to receive the ring thanks to cash from the National Fund for Acquisitions and the Art Fund.

The exhibition, entitled Treasure Trove, features archaeological finds from Kirriemuir and the glens.

The ring was found at Kirkton of Kingoldrum and reported to the Treasure Trove Unit in Edinburgh.

In Scotland, any ownerless objects found by chance, by metal detecting or by excavation become the property of the Crown and may be claimed as trove.

The ring is engraved with a shield and simple cross design, and the rough chiselled finish to the metal indicates these shields were intended to be enamelled.

Other objects added to the display were a harness piece and lead button from Glamis, dated 1706.

A 1st Century horse harness part, rare to Scotland and probably a Roman import, was also found at Kirkton of Kingoldrum.

An early enamelled mount from near Kinnordy also features.

Ms Jackson said she would like to meet those who made the discovery.

“It is incredible to think this precious ring had lain undiscovered for more than 500 years,” she added.

Kirkton of Kingoldrum lies at the foot of Kirkton Hill, four miles west of Kirrie.

The exhibition runs until December 30 and entry is free. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm.

Pride of place for the ring.