The South West Heritage Trust has acquired an ‘extraordinary’ Roman gold finger ring discovered near Ilminster, South Somerset.
Dating to around AD 297, the Ilminster Ring weighs an impressive 48 grams, making it unusually large. It is set with a finely engraved gemstone depicting the goddess Victory driving a two-horse chariot.
Amal Khreisheh, Senior Curator at South West Heritage Trust, said the ring was rare both in scale and artistry and described it as an unparalleled discovery for Britain and a unique find for South West England. 
“The Ilminster Ring is both large and heavy, with elaborate goldwork and a beautifully executed intaglio. While other examples are known, these elements combine to create a spectacular ring that is only paralleled by continental discoveries.
“Its discovery sheds light on how South Somerset’s Roman inhabitants navigated a period of unrest from 286–296. It is likely the ring was buried shortly after, in 297, as part of a hoard including coins, lead and pottery objects.”
South West Heritage Trust raised £78,010 to acquire the Ilminster Ring and Hoard, with support from the Arts Council England / V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Art Fund with a contribution from the Wolfson Foundation, and The Headley Trust, alongside generous local support from the Friends of The Museum of Somerset, Ilminster Town Council, Taunton U3A and Ilminster Education Foundation.
Aysha Afridi, Director (Museums), Arts Council England, said: “We’re delighted to support the South West Heritage Trust in acquiring the remarkable Ilminster Ring through the Arts Council England / V&A Purchase Fund.
“This acquisition is testament to the continuing impact of the Fund, our colleagues at the V&A’s expertise and support, and the value of Arts Council England investment across the nation. We’re excited to see how this extraordinary find will inspire deeper engagement with Somerset’s rich history.”
This summer, the Ilminster Ring will take centre stage in a programme of community engagement. In June, the trust will visit local primary schools, giving children the chance to explore Roman history through this extraordinary object. An Ilminster Ring Discovery Day will also take place at Ilminster Arts Centre on August 20, featuring creative activities, talks and opportunities to learn more about life in Roman Somerset.
The Ilminster Ring was discovered in 2018 by metal detectorist Kevin Minto while detecting with the landowner’s permission. Following conservation work, the ring will significantly enhance the Roman collections on display at The Museum of Somerset.
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