At Regton, we’re lucky enough to hear first-hand some incredible stories from detectorists across the UK. But every so often, one comes along that truly makes history. This is one of those moments.
When detectorist Charlie Clarke headed out for a day’s detecting with his XP ORX, he had no idea he was about to uncover what would become one of the most significant single-item metal detecting finds in the UK…ever. It’s a discovery that experts say has changed Tudor history.
Charlie found, what is now known to be a Tudor Heart Pendant associated with Henry VIII and his first wife Katherine of Aragon. The pendant, made entirely of pure gold and attached to a 75-link chain, features a red and white Tudor rose entwined with a pomegranate; Queen Katherine of Aragon’s emblem of fertility and her Spanish heritage. On the reverse, the initials H and K are joined by a tasselled cord beneath the French word tousiors, meaning “always.”
The British Museum launched the Tudor Heart Appeal, to help secure this extraordinary gold pendant for the nation, and thanks to overwhelming public support, the campaign has now successfully raised £3.5 million. We caught up with the finder to hear the incredible story behind the moment he unearthed it.
The Moment of Discovery
“Excited was an understatement, it was absolutely mind-blowing.”
He recalls the signal that started it all:
“From what I remember, it was switching from coin deep to coin fast, holding high between 75 and 99 on the display, and it gave a really high-pitched tone. It could’ve been absolutely anything.”
Despite the poor weather conditions, with constant rain turning the ground heavy and wet, he believes that might have actually helped:
“It was definitely bad conditions that day, but I think that could’ve been a good thing for conductivity.”
Digging down to around elbow deep, he finally unearthed the object that would stop him in his tracks.
“When it came out, I was completely unsure of what it was. But it was the weight and how shiny the gold was that really got me.”
Technique and Equipment
On the day of the discovery, he was using his XP ORX detector with a white coil and an XP Pinpointer.
“It was on a friend’s land, a permission I’d been on before.”
Even with challenging ground and weather, his setup and persistence paid off.
The Aftermath
After registering his find with the Finds Liaison Officer (FLO), the British Museum quickly became involved. What followed confirmed what detectorists across the UK dream of hearing: this was no ordinary discovery.
“It’s of national importance. It’s changed Tudor history, and now the world will actually get to see it.”
The pendant, intricately detailed and steeped in royal symbolism, has been declared the best single-item metal detecting find in the UK so far.
Reflections and Advice
“This one definitely tops all my finds.”
For a detectorist who’s been in and out of the hobby, and even battles with lower back pain, the moment was life-changing.
“I’d say to any other detectorists: just keep going. If that find is possible, anything is. And not only that, what will the next find of importance be?”
He encourages others to follow the proper process:
“When you do find something, report it to your Finds Liaison Officer and follow all necessary steps. If in doubt, give Regton a call, like I did.”
Why Regton
For him, Regton has been more than just a supplier. We’ve been part of the journey.
“Regtons all the way. The staff, the support, the knowledge, the help. I really can’t thank them enough.”
And while the world celebrates his extraordinary contribution to history, one thing’s for sure, he’s eager to get back out there, detector in hand.
“I’ve been on and off with the sport, but I’m dying to get back out there.”
A Find for the Ages
From a high-pitched signal on a rainy day to a golden pendant that’s rewriting Tudor history. This story captures everything that makes metal detecting so special: patience, passion, and the thrill of the unknown.
You can see the Tudor Heart Pendant and learn more about its historical significance on the British Museum’s website: The Tudor Heart Appeal
A Note from Regton
Here at Regton Metal Detectors, we’re proud to support detectorists at every stage of their journey. From that first spark of curiosity to the discovery of a lifetime. Whether you’re just getting started or chasing your next incredible find, our expert team is always here to help with the right advice, equipment and support.