Explore the British Royal Family's Dazzling Collection
7. The Ring of Catherine Howard
Catherine Howard: A Tragic Royal Legacy Place of Wear: Catherine Howard
Possession Since: 1500s
Value Estimate: Not Known
Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII, holds a significant place in English history as one of the King’s queens. Married from 1540 until 1542, her reign was tragically brief. Accused of treason and adultery with her cousin Thomas Culpepper, Catherine met a grim fate when she was executed on the orders of the King.
Her story has captivated historians for centuries, highlighting the dangers faced by women in the Tudor court and the volatile nature of royal favor.
Catherine Howard's Ring: A Mysterious Discovery
In 2019, a gold ring was discovered in a field by treasure hunter Paul Ibbotson. After thorough investigation, Ibbotson claimed that the ring may have been worn by Catherine Howard, as well as another of King Henry VIII's wives. Despite its historical significance, the provenance of the centuries-old ring remains unverified.
Currently housed in a museum in York, the ring adds a layer of intrigue to the stories of Tudor queens, symbolizing the enduring fascination with their lives and legacies.
