The museum has acquired a rare Early Medieval gold finger ring dating from 900–1100 CE, discovered at Farthingstone, Northamptonshire. Made from three strands of plaited gold wire forming the bezel and shoulders, the ring is one of the few finds in the county linked to Viking-period material culture.
The ring was found by metal detectorists and reported through the Portable Antiquities Scheme, where it was declared Treasure under the Treasure Act 1996. It was purchased with support from the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund and The Headley Museums Archaeological Acquisition Fund and The Headley Trust.
Northamptonshire lay on the frontier between the Viking-administered Danelaw and territories ruled by Saxon kings. The acquisition helps the museum tell a richer story of migration, trade and cultural exchange in the region.
Similar rings are known from Britain and Scandinavia. The object will support research, learning programmes and future displays, and will first go on show in March 2026 in an exhibition touring to Weston Favell, Brackley, Towcester and Daventry libraries.
