Viking artifacts were discovered near Harald Bluetooth's fortress on the Jutland Peninsula in Denmark. This unique discovery occurred in late 2022 thanks to a local archaeological group that was conducting field research in the northeast of the town of Hobro.
As a result of excavations, two treasures were found, including about 300 silver items, including about 50 coins and silver decorations. One of the most exciting aspects related to the discovery is that many of the items were associated with the reign of Harald Bluetooth, a powerful Danish king who ruled in the years 970-980.
There are several versions of the origin of Harald Bluetooth's nickname. One of them states that the name "Bluetooth" comes from the Danish word "Blåtand," which means "blue tooth enamel." This nickname was given to Harald for his teeth. The popular technology "Bluetooth" is named after his ability to unite different groups and peoples, like a blue tooth unites different devices.
One of the found coins.
Among the finds were silver coins depicting crosses. They were minted during the reign of Harald Bluetooth, who adopted Christianity and sought to spread it among the Vikings of Denmark. The minting of coins with crosses was part of his strategy, as he wanted to establish a precedent by paying local aristocracy coins with a cross during the transitional period when many still adhered to old beliefs.
Several of the pieces of silver are parts of one very large silver brooch, captured during a Viking raid, which was cut up for trade.
Also among the finds were the remains of a large silver brooch, which was probably seized during a Viking raid. However, such brooches were not worn in Harald Bluetooth's lands, so it was cut into several pieces of silver, which were then used for trade.
But the most exciting moment in this story is that the discovery was made by a beginner in the field of metal detecting. This confirms that anyone can become a participant in the discovery of something amazing and historically significant.
"Either don't start or, having started, don't give up." - Chinese proverb."
