Rare French Political Legitimist Signet

This rare gold ring, with a secret compartment, was made in France in the early 1830s and marks an important date for Henri d’Artois, Duke of Bordeaux — a young boy who many people at the time believed should be the rightful king of France.

The small oval medal on the front reads “MAJORITÉ – 29 7bre 1833,” which means 29 September 1833 — Henri’s 13th birthday. In the old royal tradition, this was the age when a prince was considered old enough to rule.

Supporters of Henri’s family secretly wore medals and rings like this one to show they were still loyal to him, even after his family had lost power. The little crown and cushion design on the front were quiet symbols that only other supporters would recognise.

Since these photographs were taken, we have discovered that the ring actually has a hidden locket compartment beneath the bezel. A small concealed hinge on the underside allows the face to open, revealing the reverse of the medalet, which depicts a portrait of a young boy and the words “HENRY V ROI DE FRANCE” (“Henry V, King of France”). This fascinating feature confirms that the ring was deliberately made as a secret locket, designed to conceal the royal portrait and message from view — a symbolic and private declaration of loyalty.

The band is crafted in 18K gold with crisp vertical fluting and bears the tête de bélier hallmark of Paris (1819–1838), securely dating manufacture to Henri’s lifetime. The medalet is gold-plated over base metal — typical of the period — giving the piece visual contrast while keeping it light and wearable.

Materials: 18K gold (ring), gilt medalet (base metal)

Origin: Paris, France

Date: c.1833–1835

Size: UK size T / US size 9.5

Weight: 2.53g

Medalet: 11 × 9mm

Mark: Paris tête de bélier for 18ct gold (1819–1838)

Condition: Very good antique condition with light, even wear to medalet gilding; structurally sound. There are some small dents to the gold band, commensurate with age.

Small, discreet jewels like this one allowed supporters to “wear their politics” quietly - a symbol of fidelity, heritage, and identity during the uncertain years following the fall of the Bourbon monarchy.