One of the final and most important stations on the Canterbury ‘tour’ was the fabulous head reliquary. This life size, golden, jewel encrusted reliquary, in the form of Becket’s head had been constructed to house the crown of his skull, and it must have been an object of great reverence to the pilgrims who flocked to Canterbury. Badges commemorating this reliquary were produced in many forms and the original from which this replica is taken is particularly attractive.

Original found in London.

15th century.

14x29mm Bust of Saint Thomas wearing mitre.