Metal detectorist on Isle of Man ‘couldn’t believe it’ after discovering 1,000-year-old Viking gold treasure
Secrets of Viking society revealed by gold jewellery find
- A metal detectorist has discovered a 1,000-year-old Viking gold braided arm ring on the Isle of Man which reveals insights into ancient jewellery making.
- The arm ring, dating from 1000AD to 1100AD, consists of eight strands of plaited gold rods and weighs nearly 28 grams.
- Ronald Clucas, the detectorist, expressed his shock and excitement at finding the gold piece, which gave a low signal on his detector.
- Experts believe the arm ring was crafted by a skilled goldsmith and may have served as both a display of wealth and a form of currency, evidenced by cuts indicating its use in financial transactions.
- Allison Fox from Manx National Heritage suggests the arm ring might have been hidden for safekeeping, lost, or buried as an offering to Viking gods. It is currently on display at the Manx Museum.