Great Discoveries: 1,100-Year-Old Silver Bracelets Found in Norway – WorthPoint

Recently, farmer Tårn Sigve Schmidt wanted to build a tractor road at his farm in Norway. Before he got started, Schmidt contacted archaeologists to survey the area. This prompted an excavation, along with a historic discovery—ancient silver bracelets and household items.

Archaeologists found four silver bracelets, which could be approximately 1,100 years old. Along with these, they discovered remains of soapstone pots, rivets, knife blades, and whetstones for sharpening tools.

The discovery is a “unique find,” archaeologist Volker Demuth said. In some instances, bracelets and similar items are found on fields that have been plowed. However, in this case, the discovery was found beneath the ground. And, it could provide insights into life and society in the Viking Age.

Ultimately, Demuth stated, the items were likely buried beneath the ground of a house that belonged to slaves who worked at a Viking farm. The farm and items may date back to the ninth century; the Viking Age lasted from 800 to 1050 AD.

Demuth noted that the items may have been buried as a security measure. If people who lived at the farm had to flee from an attack, they may have hidden them beneath the ground before escaping to nearby mountains.

At this point, the excavation has been extended to give archaeologists more time to search for items. Archaeologists also pointed out that the bracelets found at the farm are similar to silver necklaces discovered in Hjelmeland, Norway in 1769. As such, there could be a connection between the bracelets and necklaces.

Those who want to view more Viking bracelets can see over 2,000 items in the WorthPoint Price Guide.

Dan Kobialka is a self-employed content writer and editor with about a decade of experience. He produces content across a wide range of industries, including antiques, insurance, and real estate. To learn more about Dan, please visit his website. 

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