Cross? I was delighted! Metal detectorist finds £20,000 gold treasure in farmer’s field

Shelley Couzins, a 58-year-old metal detectorist, found a medieval gold cross in a farmer’s field on the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, after five hours of searching. The discovery matters because the unusually complete object may be historically significant and could be worth more than £20,000.

The 10.6-gram cross depicts the crucifixion on one side and Mary with the infant Jesus on the other, and has a pin that allows it to open. Classified as treasure, it is now with the British Museum; if the museum keeps it, a valuation will be shared between Couzins and the landowner. She hopes it may be linked to the area’s connections with Henry VIII and the Boleyn family.