Norwegian Hobbyists Discover Largest Viking Age Coin Stash, Sparking Archaeological Interest
Two hobbyists using metal detectors have uncovered Norway's largest known collection of Viking Age coins near the village of Rena. Initially finding 19 silver coins, their discovery prompted a full archaeological investigation, leading to the recovery of over 3,150 coins. The coins, primarily from England and Germany, with some from Denmark and Norway, date back to the late 900s and early 1000s. This period was marked by the reigns of notable figures such as Cnut the Great and Ethelred II of England, Otto III of Rome, and Norway's Harald Hardrada. The find highlights a time when foreign currency was prevalent in Norway's economy. The discovery has been described as a 'historic find' by Norway's climate and environment minister, and a once-in-a-career event by county archaeologist May-Tove Smiseth. 
