Archaeologists in Scotland have uncovered an Anglo-Saxon coin over 1,000 years old in the eastern Shetland Islands’ Nesting area. The coin dates back to the reign of King Ethelred the Unready, minted between 991 and 997 A.D.
This discovery occurred during an excavation aimed at investigating prehistoric structures facing threats from coastal erosion. The coin features a thick, greenish-brown patina, yet some markings remain visible.
King Ethelred, depicted on the ancient coin, ruled England from 978 to 1013 A.D. He is widely known for unsuccessfully defending his kingdom against Viking invasions. Though initially driven from power by Danish king Swein Forkbeard, Ethelred regained the throne in 1014, ruling until his death in 1016.
“The writing on the coin is still so sharp, and we knew immediately that it was extremely rare, actually unique, in this context,”
Elinor Graham, an archaeologist from the University of Aberdeen, took part in the excavation while on vacation in Shetland. She expressed her enthusiasm about this unique find, emphasizing its rarity and potential significance.
This discovery may reveal insights into ancient trade routes connecting Viking-controlled Shetland with Anglo-Saxon England. Some researchers suggest the coin could have been a part of trade, while others propose it may have been taken during a Norse raid.
Scotland’s Treasure Trove Unit will assess if the coin should be given to a museum. Graham hopes the Shetland Museum and Archives will eventually house the artifact. The find suggests that the area might have been a thriving cosmopolitan community, establishing connections with Anglo-Saxon England.
The region, rich in history, spans the Bronze Age, Iron Age, early medieval period, and the Viking Norse era. This discovery is the northernmost one of its kind. Previously, another Anglo-Saxon coin was found in Old Scatness, southern Shetland.
In recent news, numerous ancient coins have been uncovered across the United Kingdom. Earlier discoveries include a 1,750-year-old Roman coin during a railway project in England and a 900-year-old coin in Scotland, believed to be the country’s oldest minted coin.
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