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British Museum Secures £3.5M Tudor Heart Pendant

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The British Museum has raised £3.5 million to acquire the Tudor Heart.
The pendant was discovered in Warwickshire in 2019 by a metal detectorist.
It features the Tudor rose and Katherine's pomegranate emblem.
It is dated to 1518 and will enter the museum's permanent collection and tour the UK, with accession hoped later this year.

History

Historical Context

The Tudor dynasty began in 1485 when Henry VII defeated Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field, ending the Wars of the Roses. Henry VIII, who ascended the throne in 1509, expanded royal power and initiated the English Reformation. The recent acquisition of the Tudor Heart pendant highlights ongoing interest in this era, connecting modern audiences to England's rich royal heritage and cultural history.

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Story summary

The British Museum has raised £3.5 million to acquire the Tudor Heart.
The pendant was discovered in Warwickshire in 2019 by a metal detectorist.
It features the Tudor rose and Katherine's pomegranate emblem.
It is dated to 1518 and will enter the museum's permanent collection and tour the UK, with accession hoped later this year.

1 / 2