Viking Gold Coin Found Norfolk
A rare gold coin pendant believed to have belonged to a Viking soldier has been unearthed in a Norfolk field. The remarkable find adds to understanding of Viking incursions and trade in medieval England. The discovery comes as museums continue celebrating British industrial history, with Ironbridge museums marking the end of an era with a special heritage event.
- The coin is a 7th-century gold shilling, also known as a thrymsa, and is considered the oldest known to have been minted in East Anglia. - This particular type of coin is a new discovery, with a design that has never been seen before by experts. - The gold content of the coin is notably high for the period, ranging from 56% to 60%, suggesting it may have been an early part of a royal coinage for the East Anglian kingdom. - Discovered by a metal detectorist near Norwich, the artifact showcases a blend of pagan and Christian imagery, reflecting a time of religious transition in England. - One side of the coin depicts a dancing male figure holding a Christian cross over a valknut, a symbol associated with the Norse god Odin. - The reverse side of the coin features a cross within a four-leaf clover shape (quatrefoil) and a Latin-style inscription that is largely illegible, likely created by someone who could not read Latin. - The imagery on the coin is reminiscent of the mix of pagan and Christian artifacts found in the famous Sutton Hoo ship burial, which is also from East Anglia. - Due to its unique nature and historical importance, the coin is being considered for official "Treasure" status, which would likely lead to its acquisition by a museum for public display.
