An ancient papal seal was accidentally discovered in Britain

Amateur archaeologist Andy Bassett found an ancient seal of the Pope. The object was discovered using a metal detector on one of the vast British fields in Shropshire. Researchers believe that the artifact is more than 700 years old. In accordance with the "Law on treasures", adopted in 1996, all such artifacts must be reported to the authorities, which the archaeologist immediately did.

The seal has been preserved quite well. It is made of lead and at first glance resembles a coin. Scientists have suggested that the object belonged to Pope innocent IV, who used it to achieve political and religious goals. Probably, the seal got to great Britain because the Pope tried to negotiate with king Henry III. According to another version, innocent IV sent a message to an influential person. This was often practiced in the Middle ages, since wealthy people could donate large sums of money to the Catholic Church.