Grandmother mistakes medieval gold cross for costume jewelry before learning its five-figure value

A metal detecting enthusiast in Kent found a medieval gold cross after hours searching a freshly ploughed field, at first mistaking it for costume jewellery. The find matters because it is a rare religious artefact that may be worth tens of thousands of pounds, though its ownership and value have not yet been settled.

Shelley Couzins, 58, found the 10.6-gram cross on the Isle of Sheppey in August and reported it through England’s treasure process. It depicts the crucifixion on one side and Mary with the infant Jesus on the other, and can open to hold relics. The British Museum is assessing it; online estimates suggest at least £20,000, but there is no official valuation. If acquired through the treasure process, any reward is expected to be shared between Couzins and the landowner.