Late 17th century.

Description: Sheet Silver cufflink. Circular in plan, with a relief-stamped design depicting clasped hands with two flaming hearts side-by-side below, a crown above. The cufflink has down-turned sides. The reverse has a wire loop soldered to the surface. The cufflink has been slightly crumpled, as if subjected to lateral pressure.

Plano-convex cloak button, possibly silver. The obverse decorated with a strap-work design and a rose in the centre.

Dimensions: Cufflink - Diameter: 15.13mm; weight: 1.0g.
Button - Diameter: 24.88mm; weight 10.2g

Discussion: Buttons bearing the motif of clasped hands beneath a crown are common treasure finds (cf. TAR 2005/6, no. 614). They are considered to have been originally produced to commemorate the marriage of Charles II to Catherine of Braganza in 1662, but continued in use as a general symbol of love and/or marriage.

Ref: Treasure Annual Report 2005/6: 139, no. 614.

I can confirm that the cufflink a minimum of 10 per cent silver. Based on age and precious metal content, it qualifies as treasure under the terms of the Treasure Act 1996. Although the cloak button was found next to the cufflink, it is unlikely to have been deposited with the cufflink and therefore fails to qualify as treasure by association.