Gold pendant made for Henry VIII's daughter sells for £3.5m after being found near Birmingham cafe

Charlie Clarke, who discovered the artefact, will become a millionaire if the British Museum's campaign to raise £3.5million to buy the pendant is successful.

The museum launched a bid to save the "Tudor Heart," hoping for funds from the public.

According to research by experts at the museum, the 24-carat gold artefact may have been made for a tournament held in October 1518 to mark the betrothal of Henry VIII's and Katharine's daughter, Princess Mary.

Henry VIII often used London goldsmiths to create costume jewellery for celebrations and state events.

The artefact unites the Tudor rose with Katherine's pomegranate symbol. It features a banner that states "tousiors," the old French for "always".

The pendant was discovered in a Warwickshire field and reported under the Treasure Act 1996.

Any object declared treasure becomes the crown's property under the act.

The proceeds of the purchase tend to be shared with the person who discovered the artefact, meaning Mr Clarke could be set for a £1.75million gain.

Speaking about the discovery, Mr Clarke told The Guardian: "I had found a few coins before, nothing special. But I knew it was gold.

"When you see that colour, then that is what you are there for as a metal detectorist."

The British Museum is currently holding the pendant and will go on display from this week for the rest of the fundraising campaign.

The museum must raise the money by April 2026, having already received a £500,000 donation from the Julia Rausing Trust.

Nicholas Cullinan, director of the British Museum, said: "The Tudor Heart is perhaps one of the most incredible pieces of English history to have ever been unearthed.

"Support will ensure that this unique and beautiful treasure is secured for the nation, so that it can be enjoyed by and inspire generations to come."

Simon Fourmy, chief executive of The Julia Rausing Trust, said: "We are delighted to support the British Museum in acquiring the Tudor Heart for the nation.

"This remarkable pendant sheds light on a defining royal marriage and enriches our understanding of the Tudor world.

"We hope others will be as inspired by this extraordinary object as we were, and will join us in giving generously to ensure this treasure remains on view for many years to come."

A public donation campaign is now open, and the pendant will be on display in the museum's gallery two until April 2026.