ca. 1300–1500 AD. European. A wearable silver ring comprising a round band, linearly decorated shoulders, and a square bezel with an incised Medieval coat of arms in the shape of a star and a shield surmounted by a crown. Coat of arms, the principal part of a system of hereditary symbols dating back to early medieval Europe, were used primarily to establish identity in battle; they then evolved to denote family descent, adoption, alliance, property ownership, and, eventually, profession; excellent condition, wearable.Provenance: Obtained from B.C. ; previously in a collection formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.Size: D: 18.2mm / US: 8 / UK: Q; 5.2g