Gilded copper-alloy, 2.28 grams, 17.58 mm. 6th or early 7th century AD. The central stud from an Anglo-Saxon shield-boss, originally mounted on a short (2-3cm) shank at the apex of the boss. The design is a step-key pattern. Reference: Dickinson, T. & Härke, H. Early Anglo-Saxon Shields, Society of Antiquaries, London, 1992. Extremely fine condition.