Description:

The matrix is circular with a central motif of a heraldic shield. The Shield is topped with an area of hashed lines (representing dark red or 'murrey) covering roughly the top third of the shield with two stars at either side. The bottom two thirds of the shield are blank (representing silver or Argent), the lower part of the shield is divided from the tope with a jagged line. Heraldically speaking this is a device of 'Argent on a chief murrey indented two mullet'. The legends reads: " +S'RADULFI⦁DE⦁SANDWICO⦁", which translates as 'Seal of Ralph of Sandwich'.

The reverse of the matrix is plain except for a shallow raised rib across the back, at one end of which wides to a D shaped suspension lug. The matrix is a dark brown colour with some brighter colour patches on the back.

Measurements: 23.02mm in diameter, 8.65mm thick and 7.12g in weight.

Discussion:

The matrix is a heraldic personal seal, naming a Ralph of Sandwich. Such seals increased in popularity from the early 13th century and a Ralph of Sandwich (1235-1308) is known from the period. This Ralph served as Lord Mayor of London from 1281-1289, 1289-1292 and again from 1293-1298. His family also owned and indeed he was born at Preston Manor close to where this seal matrix was found. The arms also appear to match that of De Sandwich. So while there is often caution taken with associating simple heraldry to a known individual, in this case it is almost certain that this matrix is directly associated to the Ralph of Sandwich (and/or his household) who was Lord Mayor of London at the turn of the 13th/14th centuries.