A 17th Century mourning ring discovered by a metal detectorist in Dorset is to go under the hammer.

Anthony Woolmington, who has been metal detecting for eight years, found the ring on a farm near Shillingstone in 2021.

Unaware of its significance, he handed it to the farmer, whose son began looking in to its origins.

Research by Dorset History Centre, British Museum and Hansons Auctioneers revealed the ring commemorated a death more than 300 years ago.

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The inside of the band bears a maker’s mark - a Gothic capital “B” - which dates it to 1692, along with the initials “ML” and date of death “23rd April 1692”.

Helen Smith, head of jewellery at Hansons, described the discovery as “truly remarkable”.

"Mourning rings were often crafted to commemorate significant losses, particularly during times of turmoil such as the English Civil War, the execution of Charles I, and the subsequent political upheaval.

“This ring is an extraordinary example of both craftsmanship and the deeply personal nature of jewellery in that era.”

The 3.7g ring is expected to fetch between £600 and £800 when it is sold on 27 February.