Cafe owner who found gold Tudor pendant with metal detector is set for staggering 7-figure pay day

A CAFÉ owner who found a gold Tudor pendant while metal detecting in a field is set for a £1.75million pay-day.

The heart-shaped gem was believed to be commissioned by Henry VIII for first wife Catherine of Aragon and bears their initials and emblems.

It was discovered in 2019 by Charlie Clarke — who said he “shrieked like a schoolgirl”.

The British Museum wants to raise £3.5million in the next six months to buy the Tudor Heart and prevent it being snapped up a private collector.

The money would be split with Charlie, of Birmingham, and the Warwickshire land-owner.

British Museum director Dr Nicholas Cullinan said: “The Tudor Heart is perhaps one of the most incredible pieces of English history to have ever been unearthed.

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“Support will ensure that this unique and beautiful treasure is secured for the nation, so that it can be enjoyed by and inspire generations to come.”

The fund-raising is backed by actor Damian Lewis, who played Henry in BBC drama Wolf Hall

He said: “The Tudor Heart is beautiful, shedding a light on to the court of Henry not pre­viously seen.

“This beautiful object, we want as many people in the world to see it.”