A fine and rare example of a gold and garnet armorial seal ring with the arms of of Henry Somerset, the 1st Duke of Somerset (born 1629, died 21st January 1700) or his grandson, Henry Somerset, the 2nd Duke of Somerset (born 2nd April 1684 died 24th May 1714).

The period of ownership for Henry, the 1st Duke would have been from 2nd December 1682, the date when he was created as the Duke of Beaufort, within the Peerage of England, until his death in January 1700, whilst for his grandson, Henry, the 2nd Duke again it would have had a short currency from October 1712 when he was appointed to be a Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter (KG) until his death in May 1714.

The ring mounting appears to be early 18th century.

11.5mm x 18mm
7.2 grams
Finger size approximately UK - M, US - 6

£24,000