Celtic figure with oversized genitals sells for £3k

The 37mm by 10mm (1.45in by 0.39in) figure was found in a ploughed field during "appalling" weather, said finder Bob Jemmett

A 1st Century BC bronze Celtic "fertility figure" with oversized genitals has sold for £3,000, twice its pre-sale estimate.

Retired lorry driver Bob Jemmett, 75, discovered the figure at Great Chishill, Cambridgeshire, in 2018, during a metal detecting rally.

He nicknamed it "Nobby" and recently decided to sell it through Noonans Mayfair to fund improvements at his home near Manningtree, Essex.

"I hope that he brings the new finder as much fun as he's brought me and my friends over the years," said Mr Jemmett.

Bob Jemmett has been metal detecting for 30 years

"It was really exciting watching the sale, but I am quite sad to see Nobby go," he added.

Mr Jemmett made the discovery in September 2018 during appalling weather "with the rain lashing down".

He reported it to the Portable Anquities Scheme, in line with the law.

It is similar to the Cerne Abbas Giant carved into a hill in Dorset, which is now believed to date to the Anglo-Saxon period.

"The figure was identified as a Celtic fertility figure and [was] subsequently used as a logo by the rally organisers in their promotions," he said.

"As a result, detectorists from all over Europe at rallies would ask me if they could see "Nobby", who I always keep in my pocket as a constant companion!”

Nigel Mills, artefact and coin expert at Noonans, said: "This unique figure dates from the first century BC, he has an oversized bald head with deep sockets for eyes, wedges for arms and short legs.

"There is a loop behind for suspension."

Mr Jemmett has been metal detecting for almost 30 years and is married with two daughters and eight grandchildren.

The figure is similar to the Cerne Abbas Giant carved into a hill in Dorset