A POST medieval silver cufflink celebrating the marriage of Charles II and Catherine of Braganza was officially declared treasure at an inquest in Taunton.

The 13.6mm-wide accessory - engraved with two love hearts below a crown - was unearthed by metal detector enthusiast Doug Turner in Sherford, Taunton, on August 24.

Similar motifs were commonly found on cufflinks and buttons around the 17th Century as a popular symbol for marriage following the English monarch's wedding in 1662.

West Somerset Coroner Michael Rose said the fact that the object contained at least 10 per cent precious metal and probably dated from between 1662 and 1710 meant it officially qualified as treasure under the Treasure Act 1996.

He added that if it was not claimed by a museum within 28 days it could be returned to Mr Turner, who lives in Taunton.