Police keen to trace owner of ancient bangle

Police in Palmerston North are trying to reunite a Roman glass bangle, which is believed to be more than 2000 years old, with its rightful owner.

The bangle was handed in to Police and information they have received suggests that it has come from the Waikato Region and may have been taken from either a museum or a collector some 10 or 12 years ago.

Experts at Victoria University have looked at the bangle and believe it to be authentic which would place its origins in 1st Century AD. It is a blue glass bangle mounted in an ornate silver frame with an engraved silver plaque.

Enquiries to date have failed to identify the legitimate owner.

Sgt Paul Claridge from Palmerston North Police said: "It's certainly the most unique piece of property I have ever dealt with. It's impossible to put a monetary value on an item of this kind, but I am sure it is very precious to someone and I am really keen to return it to where it belongs."

Anyone who has any information about this bangle is asked to contact Sgt Paul Claridge at Palmerston North Police on 06 351 3600. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.