probably London, circa 1823-24, gold lettering on black enamel "In Memory Of", hand engraved borders, white enamel banding, hand engraving to interior "Hannah Scholey.Ob..22 Mar..1824 Oer.64." English hallmarks, George IV duty mark, date code 1823, partial maker's mark "WE", tests 22kt. yellow gold, ring sz. 7, 12.5mm wide, 11.4 g

Provenance: Tonnesen Collection, New Hampshire

Note: Hannah (nee Exam) Scholey was born on August 19, 1759, in the parish of All Hallows the Less, London, to Robert and Mary Exam, and baptized eight days later.

On November 19, 1785, she married George Scholey of St. Laurence Pountney. The parish record described George as a "London Bachelor" and Hannah, then 26, as a "Spinster" of St. Nicholas Olave. Their marriage joined her to a man who would become an established figure in the City of London.

By 1796, George's company was listed in the Poll Book and Electoral Register as Merchant Taylor residing at St. Catherine's, a bustling precinct beside the Tower of London. The Merchant Taylors' Company, one of the Great Twelve Livery Companies in London, was at that time a powerful civic body, active in commerce, philanthropy, and education. George went on to serve as an alderman of the City of London and was styled "Esquire," a title reserved for those holding offices of trust under the Crown.

Hannah lived to see her husband's rise in civic life but died in March 1824, at the age of 64. She was buried in Battersea, Surrey. The ring, a size 7, was likely made for a female friend or family member to mourn the loss of Hannah. George survived her by 15 years and was buried at St. Mary's, Battersea, on October 11, 1839, aged 82, with the service performed by Vicar Robert Eden.

Note: Brunk Auctions does not guarantee the accuracy of metal content or purity. All references to metal types and purity are based on available markings and/or tests performed to the best of our ability. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Brunk Auctions is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Buyers are solely responsible for making their own determinations prior to bidding. All sales are final. No refunds, returns, or post sale adjustments will be considered.