Up to 20,000 Medieval Silver Coins and Jewelry Unearthed Near Stockholm, Deemed Unique for Region
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A fisherman digging for worms near his summer house in the Stockholm area recently unearthed a substantial hoard of medieval silver coins and jewelry, dating primarily to the 12th century. This significant discovery, comprising thousands of artifacts, marks the only medieval treasure of its kind found in the Stockholm region, offering invaluable insights into Sweden's early history. The individual promptly reported the find to local authorities, leading to an archaeological investigation.
The extensive cache, weighing approximately 13 pounds (6 kilograms), includes an estimated 20,000 silver coins, alongside beads, rings, and pendants, all originally contained within a now-corroded copper cauldron. Sofia Andersson, an antiquarian at the Stockholm County Administrative Board, noted the immense scale, stating, "This is likely one of the largest silver hoards from the early Middle Ages ever found in Sweden. We don’t know how many coins there are yet, but I think it could be as many as twenty thousand."
Among the unearthed coins, many are embossed with the Latin inscription "KANUTUS," referring to King Knut Eriksson, who reigned between roughly 1173 and 1195. As stated in a social media post by Ajit Pai, "Some of the coins are embossed with the name and likeness of the Swedish king Knut Eriksson, who ruled between roughly 1173 and 1195." This period was characterized by significant political instability, with "the 12th century [being] a tumultuous period for Sweden, which was then home to several competing kingdoms," the post further explained.
Lin Annerbäck, director of Stockholm’s Medieval Museum, underscored the find's exceptional nature, confirming, "It is completely unique; we have no other medieval treasures from Stockholm." The discovery is particularly notable as the city of Stockholm did not officially exist in the 12th century, having been founded later in 1252. This hoard thus provides a rare glimpse into the region's economy and society before the capital's establishment.
Further analysis of the treasure revealed the presence of rare "bishop's coins" and coins originating from Gotland, a prominent Baltic trading hub during the medieval era. These diverse coin types suggest broader trade connections and economic activity than previously understood. Under Swedish law, the finder has reported the discovery, and the National Heritage Board will determine whether the state will acquire the treasure, compensating the individual for its value.