File:Baldric ring (FindID 93888).jpg

English: A mid-late Iron Age baldric ring, which would have been used as part of the composite belt, used to hang a sword. The baldric ring is copper alloy and comprises a large hoop, which is not quite circular. Projecting (presumably) from the top of the hoop is a press-stud type fitting. Below this feature (projecting into the interior of the hoop) is a decorative feature. The feature extends down from either side of the stud and then joins below the stud (inside the hoop). This decorative feature has a concave groove pressed into it, which follows the feature, either side of the stud to where it terminates inside the hoop. The stud is integral to the make up of the baldric ring. The stud expends upwards from the hoop at a 12 o' clock position, the obverse and reverse surfaces are flat, whilst the profile is slightly curved. This extension terminates with a rounded circle of copper-alloy, which then extends at 90 degrees from the main body of the baldric to create the press-stud type fitting. The 'stud' is domed and faces forwards. The stud and the connection measures 13.1mm from the front of the stud to the reverse.
This stud may have fitted into holes in leather in much the same way as a modern belt is held together. The reverse of the artefact is undecorated and is flat.
The metal has a polished dark green patina. The artefact is an extremely good condition and it is obvious that this artefact was a high status personal adornment.
There are three similar baldric rings which are currently known about: 1) found in Winchester, Hampshire, 2) found in a 3rd century BC grave in Poland and 3) see PAS record number SUSS-4C9825 (JD Hill Pers. Comm.).

Four baldric rings have recently been found in West Sussex, the PAS record numbers are listed here:
SUSS-D82452
SUSS-4C9825
SUSS-4C8491
SUSS-913C68

The four baldric rings have all been donated to the British Museum by the finders and the landowners.