Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Largest Viking Silver Hoard Discovered in Denmark During Backyard Renovation

A routine backyard excavation for a new terrace in northern Denmark led to the discovery of the largest Viking silver hoard ever found in the country, containing approximately 700 artifacts weighing over 40 pounds.

The treasure, unearthed in the municipality of Rebild, is believed to have been buried in the tenth century. It includes bracelets, 47 coins and coin fragments, silver bars, and a Thor's hammer amulet. About 320 items were found within a pottery vessel, with the rest scattered nearby.

Archaeologists highlight the hoard's significance for understanding the Viking Age silver economy, where silver served as both coinage and weighed bullion for trade and wealth storage. Silver was the most crucial precious metal during this era, used for payments and valued by weight.

The discovery offers insights into Viking trade networks, with coins minted under English King Edward the Elder and Arabic dirhams indicating connections to the east. Runes on a silver bar may represent a name or ownership mark.

The Thor's hammer amulet, a symbol associated with the Norse god of thunder, may have been worn for protection. Such amulets were believed to offer safety to their wearers.

This hoard significantly surpasses Denmark's second-largest Viking silver collection, Terslevskat. The North Jutland Museums hopes to eventually exhibit the Rebild artifacts.

The burial occurred during a period of significant political and religious change in Scandinavia, as the Danish kingdom formed and Christianity spread, providing evidence of a society in transition.

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