In a stroke of serendipity, Rob Edwards, accompanied by his cousin, stumbled upon an unexpected treasure during a routine exploration with a metal detector in the picturesque region of Pembrokeshire, Wales, in November 2020.
Museum officials say a metal detector discovered an artifact while exploring beneath a tree in Wales. This photo represents the area where the artifact was found.
Amidst the tranquil setting, beneath the shade of an ancient oak tree, Edwards experienced a moment of astonishment as his metal detector emitted a clear signal, signaling the presence of something remarkable beneath the earth. Initially mistaking it for a coin, Edwards soon discovered that fate had bestowed upon him a far more intriguing find – an ancient silver thimble, shrouded in the mysteries of time.
The discovery, unveiled in a recent news release by the Museum of Wales, has captured the imaginations of historians and enthusiasts alike. Sporting intricate Roman letters engraved upon its base, the thimble exudes an aura of antiquity and elegance.
Reflecting on the moment of revelation, Edwards remarked, “It wasn’t until later when I saw the same waffle pattern on another thimble that I knew I had found something special.” Indeed, his discovery has sparked curiosity and intrigue, prompting speculation about the individual who once cherished this remarkable artifact.
Experts, upon careful examination, have dated the thimble to the post-medieval period, placing its origins between 1682 and 1740. Adorned with elaborate decorations, including a zig-zag pattern and a basket weave motif, the thimble stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears.
A thimble used by Pembrokeshire tailors more than four centuries ago found in a field near Carew Castle has been declared a treasure. (Photo: Curator Amgueddfa Cymru/Cardiff National Museum)
Of particular interest is an engraving on the thimble’s base, which reads “LYKE STIL AND LOVE EVER” in capital Roman letters. This poignant inscription hints at the possibility of the thimble being an intimate possession, perhaps exchanged as a token of affection between lovers.
Edwards, contemplating the rich history encapsulated within the thimble, mused, “I like to think about who used it. Is it used in the castle that I can see along the way? Did anyone have trouble when it was lost? I’m so glad I was able to share it with you.” His sentiments echo the sentimentality attached to such relics, each bearing witness to a bygone era.
As museum officials delve deeper into the significance of this newfound artifact, one thing remains certain – the ancient silver thimble serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of history and the chance encounters that shape our understanding of the past. In a world filled with uncertainty, it is these moments of discovery that illuminate the path to knowledge and understanding, offering glimpses into the lives of those who came before us.