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Stolen Napoleon III Plaques Recovered After TV Discovery

2/23/2026

47 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Two priceless altar plaques stolen from the crypt of Napoleon III at St Michael’s Abbey, Hampshire, in February 2014, have been recovered.
Antiques dealer Paul Gostelow identified the plaques while watching a repeat of Lovejoy.
Gostelow alerted Hampshire Constabulary after recognizing Napoleonic motifs on the plaques.
Police confirmed the plaques’ authenticity.
Authorities continue to search for the third missing plaque.

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Story summary

Two priceless altar plaques stolen from the crypt of Napoleon III at St Michael’s Abbey, Hampshire, in February 2014, have been recovered.
Antiques dealer Paul Gostelow identified the plaques while watching a repeat of Lovejoy.
Gostelow alerted Hampshire Constabulary after recognizing Napoleonic motifs on the plaques.
Police confirmed the plaques’ authenticity.
Authorities continue to search for the third missing plaque.