13th-14th century A.D. A hollow tin figure modelled in the round as St Thomas Becket in full robes holding a long cross in his left hand and with right arm raised in blessing; the head, right hand and upper part of cross absent; with a small note confirming the publication. See Spencer, Brian, Medieval Finds from Excavations in London - Pilgrim Souvenirs and Secular Badges, Museum of London, 2010, no.26a, for a very similar and entire example; see See Mitchiner, Michael, Pilgrim and Secular Badges, Hawkins, 1986, nos.10-11, for other pieces. Spencer, Brian, Medieval Finds from Excavations in London - Pilgrim Souvenirs and Secular Badges, Museum of London, 2010, no.26c (this piece). 9.01 grams, 56 mm (2 1/4 in.). Found on the Thames foreshore, London, UK. Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 4), Essex, UK. These pilgrim figurines are very rare; it is possible that they were intended to be affixed at the top of a staff. The story of the martyrdom of Thomas at the hands of Reginald FitzUrse, Hugh de Morville, William de Tracy and Richard le Breton is well known; Thomas was in conflict with Henry II and had only recently returned from exile in France when these four knights, seeking to please Henry, travelled to Canterbury and slew Thomas in the cathedral; Henry was obliged to do public penance for the act and Becket's shrine became the major focus for pilgrimages in Britain and beyond with badges and other items being made for the pilgrims to take home with them. [No Reserve]