File:Medieval seal matrix impression with possible reading (FindID 278999).jpg

English: A complete Medieval cast lead alloy seal matrix, 14th century AD. The seal matrix is circular in plan and the edges have sustained some slight damage. On the reverse of the seal, inset from the centre of the upper edge, projects a small lobe pierced with a circular hole. Beneath this on the surface of the reverse are two impressed rings and an irregular raised area that may have been made during the casting process. The circular die of the seal matrix has been divided into a legend and a circular central field. The central field contains an irregular six-spoked star with the initials sS contained in one field. The legend reads S' GUILLUS DE LE[]. The legend denotes the seal as one intended for personal use; it would have been made to order for an individual commission (Cherry 1991). Dimensions: thickness: 2.29mm; diameter: 31.71mm; weight: 12.83g. Reference: Cherry, J. (1991) Seal Matrices. In: Saunders, P. and Saunders, E. (Eds.) Salisbury & South Wiltshire Museum Medieval Catalogue Part 1 Salisbury & South Wiltshire Museum Waiting to hear from Chris Whittick.

Helen Geake writes: Not only is this seal matrix difficult to read from images, it is even difficult to say precisely where the inscription begins. On the front of the lug (normally at the top) there is no S' for Seal of... in the inscription. At the opposite end, however, where there is an S in one angle of the central motif, there is an S, and there also may be a small apostrophe, although it is possible that this short line is alternatively a serif. The next letter appears to me to be a Lombardic M, although it is also possible that the first line of this is a large apostrophe and the second two strokes a Lombardic N.

My reading of the inscription (from images of matrix and impression) makes no more sense than any other yet offered: it is S' MEINILDENLGASDENCN. Other Ns are Roman, sometimes reverse-barred. If the serif on the other S is an apostrophe, showing the start of the inscription, it reads S'DENCNSMEINILDENLGA.

If anyone has an alternative reading, please use the comments box below.