What type of rare coin was discovered in Norfolk?

A rare gold coin pendant, an imitation of a Louis the Pious solidus from AD814-840, was discovered in a Norfolk field.

How many imitation gold coins associated with the Vikings have been found in Britain?

So far, 22 imitation gold coins associated with the Vikings have been found in Britain, with the Norfolk find being the second in that county.

Where was the Viking gold coin pendant found?

The Viking gold coin pendant was found by a metal detectorist in a field at Elsing, near Dereham, in Norfolk in September 2024.

Home / Science / Viking Gold Coin Unearthed in Norfolk Field

Viking Gold Coin Unearthed in Norfolk Field

22 Feb

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Summary

A rare gold coin from the Viking Great Army era was found.
The coin, an imitation of Louis the Pious solidus, dates to AD814-840.
It's one of 22 similar imitation gold coins found in Britain.

Viking Gold Coin Unearthed in Norfolk Field

A remarkable discovery has been made in a Norfolk field: a gold coin pendant once lost by a soldier of the Viking Great Army. The artifact is a rare imitation of a Louis the Pious solidus, dating from AD814-840. Found by a metal detectorist in September 2024, the coin likely arrived in Norfolk with the "heathen force" that invaded England in AD865.

Coin expert Simon Coupland highlighted the coin's unusual nature, being gold, minted on the continent, and associated with the Vikings. This particular imitation is one of 22 discovered in Britain, which collectively help chart the movements of the formidable Viking Great Army. These finds are instrumental in aiding archaeologists and historians.