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Posted on 04/30/2026 9:19:46 PM PDT by SunkenCiv
A remarkable archaeological discovery in eastern Norway has revealed the largest Viking Age coin hoard ever found in the country, offering new insights into trade, wealth, and political transformation during the late 10th and early 11th centuries.
The hoard, uncovered in a field near Rena in Østerdalen, currently consists of 2,970 silver coins, with excavations still ongoing. Archaeologists believe the total may rise further as the site continues to be investigated under controlled conditions. The discovery is already being described as unprecedented in a Norwegian context.
The coins originate from a wide geographical area, underscoring Norway's extensive international connections during the Viking Age. Most are English (Anglo-Saxon) and German in origin, alongside smaller numbers of Danish and Norwegian coins. Among them are issues minted during the reigns of prominent historical figures including Cnut the Great, Æthelred II, Otto III, and Harald Hardrada.
Experts from the Museum of Cultural History in Oslo have dated the hoard to between the 980s and the 1040s, with deposition likely occurring around 1047. According to Professor Svein Gullbekk, the find captures a pivotal economic moment. "Foreign coinage dominated Norway's monetary system until Harald Hardrada established a national coinage. This hoard was buried right at the beginning of that transition," he explained.
(Excerpt) Read more at heritagedaily.com ...
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There sure are a lot of coin hoards being found all over Europe...................
You’re on a major roll tonight aren’t you?
Unfortunately it’s hanging over my belt. This summer I plan to tour the country and winning belly flop contests.
I think the minimum number of coins for hoard status is two.
If they come from uncivilized sources, they probably can be called barbarian hoards. Which means, it's time for...
It's called viking raids
Medieval Thug Life.
I don’t think my heart could withstand the shock of finding a hoard like that.
Some nice stuff.
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