Bob Jemmett, Retired Lorry Driver : “Nobby Fertility Figure: Unique Metal Detectorist Find for Sale”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Ancient fertility figure discovery
2. Nobby metal detectorist find

Retired lorry driver Bob Jemmett discovered a Celtic fertility figure in a ploughed field in Cambridgeshire back in 2018. The bronze figure, nicknamed Nobby, was found during an organised rally and has since been kept by Mr. Jemmett. However, after a recent burglary, he has decided to sell the figure at an upcoming auction with an estimated value of up to £1,500. The unique figure, dating back to the first century BC, features distinctive characteristics and has garnered attention from detectorists across Europe. Mr. Jemmett, a seasoned metal detectorist, plans to use the sale proceeds for home improvements.

Retired Lorry Driver Unearths Celtic Fertility Figure in Cambridgeshire Field

Bob Jemmett, a 75-year-old retired lorry driver from Manningtree, Essex, made an extraordinary discovery in a ploughed field in Little Chishill, Cambridgeshire. The bronze figure, measuring 37mm by 10mm, was found by Mr Jemmett at an organised rally back in September 2018.

Mr Jemmett affectionately nicknamed the figure ‘Nobby’ and kept it for years as a cherished find from his metal detecting adventures. However, he recently made the decision to sell the figure after experiencing a burglary at his home.

The Remarkable Discovery

Recalling the day he found the figure, Mr Jemmett described the weather as appalling, with rain lashing down during the rally. Despite the conditions, he persevered and received a lovely signal from his Minelab 3030 detector. Digging down four inches, he uncovered the small, bronze, nude male figure, which featured a prominent erection similar to the Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset.

The figure, estimated to date from the first century BC, was identified as a Celtic fertility figure and was subsequently used as a logo by the rally organisers in their promotions. This unique find gained attention from detectorists all over Europe who would ask to see ‘Nobby,’ whom Mr Jemmett always kept in his pocket as a constant companion.

Upcoming Auction at Noonans Mayfair

Nobby will soon be part of a sale of ancient coins and antiquities at Noonans Mayfair on Thursday June 20 from 10am. The figure has a pre-auction estimate of up to £1,500, reflecting its historical significance and rarity.

Nigel Mills, an artefact and coin expert at Noonans, described the figure as dating back to the first century BC, featuring an oversized bald head with deep eye sockets, wedges for arms, short legs, and a loop behind for suspension.

Life of a Detectorist

Mr Jemmett has been metal detecting for nearly 30 years and is married with two daughters and eight grandchildren. He expressed his intention to use any proceeds from the sale of the figure towards home improvements, showcasing his passion for preserving and sharing pieces of history.

For those interested in owning a piece of ancient history and supporting Mr Jemmett’s endeavors, the upcoming auction at Noonans Mayfair presents a unique opportunity to acquire a one-of-a-kind Celtic fertility figure with a fascinating backstory.