Written by the Treasureguide for the exclusive use of the Treasure Beaches Repo
With a history dating back to at least the 13th century, the Fisherman’s Ring is among the most recognizable items of papal regalia. Named after St. Peter, who was a fisherman and, according to the Catholic tradition, the first pope, it was worn by Pope Francis to ceremonial events throughout his 12-year reign. Countless devoted followers kissed it. It even sparked a controversy over hygiene.
Now, as tradition dictates, the late pontiff’s signet ring will be destroyed — or defaced, at least — within the walls of the Vatican following his death, aged 88, on Easter Monday.
It is a ritual with practical roots. The Fisherman’s Ring and a pendant called the bulla traditionally served as official seals for official letters and documents known as papal briefs. New ones were issued to each incoming pope, and to prevent letters or decrees being forged posthumously, both would be smashed with a hammer upon his death. From 1521 until 2013, this is precisely what happened...
Here is the link for more about that.
Why Pope Francis’ signet ring will be destroyed following his death
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And here is a great resource from Britain's National Archives.
The National Archives holds over a quarter of a million seals dating from the 11th to the 20th century. Much of the collection, which includes a number of significant royal, government and colonial seals, is from the medieval and early modern periods. Use this guide for advice on how to locate and view these seals...
You can see many of the seals and the related information in the extensive database
Here is the link.
One of my all-time favorite beach finds is wax seal impression that I found at the water's edge north of Turtle Trail. It is hard to imagine something so fragile lasting so long and then being found. Unfortunately I was never able to a great photo of the impression. I will have to take some time to research it. I previously had offers by people interested in doing the research but never was able to give them a good photo. Who knows what official document it was attached to?
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Here is another good research resource. It is the Journal of Glass Studies. Issue 66 for example includes a few interesting articles.
Here is a link to one of those articles about early vitreous materials found in Spain.
Journal of Glass Studies | Issue: Issue: 0(66) 2024 (2025)
And here is a link to an article on 17th century European glass.
The records show tons of glass beads and objects imported to the early Spanish colonies, so this research could come in handy if you've found some glass beads or shards on the Treasure Beaches. I'm sure that more time on that site will produce many more good relevant articles.
I noticed the BIG find from the Oak Island TV show is a glass beach discovered by the archaeologists. Of course, it was a huge find and related somehow to the Templars or something. I've sorta gone to sleep on that exciting program.
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Looks like we're in for a week of two - three foot surf. Still, if you are dedicated you can make some great finds. It was a very calm surf summer-like day when I found my wax seal impression.
Good hunting,
TreasureGuide@comcast.net