A Valentine’s Day find dating back to the time of the Battle of Hastings has been officially declared as treasure. 

A coin brooch pin modified using a silver penny was discovered by treasure hunters near King’s Lynn on February 14, 2020. 

In a report from The British Museum, Wendy Scott, a finds liaison officer, described the item as coin broach crafted using a Pyramids Type penny of Edward the Confessor. 

The coin was issued at the end of his reign between 1045AD to 1066AD.  

The brooch, found by Adam Staples, also includes four silver rivets attached to two sets of two silver strips to form a pin hinge with a surviving silver pin and catch plate.  

The coin is gilded on the front and part of the back. 

Ms Scott said: “The modification of coins into pendants, brooches, and badges was particularly prevalent in England in the 11th century AD, with coins of the Edward the Confessor often being utilised for such purposes. 

(Image: The British Museum)

“The cross side would have been outward facing and worn as an item of jewellery.” 

For an item to be officially defined as treasure according to the Treasure Act 1996, it has to be at least 300 years old. 

It must also have a metallic content of which at least 10pc by weight is precious metal. 

Area coroner Yvonne Blake said she was satisfied that the item met the criteria and declared it treasure. 

By law, finders of potential treasure must legally notify their local coroner. 

An inquest determines whether the find is treasure. If the coroner rules it is, the finder must offer it for sale to a museum. A reward is then shared between the finder and landowner. 

Edward the Confessor (c1003 – January 5, 1066) was an Anglo-Saxon English king and saint, usually considered the last king of the House of Wessex.