Early medieval silver treasure found in Stockholm

"A large treasure of silver coins and jewelry from the 12th century has been discovered in Sweden. It is the first medieval treasure found in Stockholm, and one of the largest silver treasures from the early Middle Ages ever found in Sweden. Stockholm was founded in 1252, so the treasure predates the existence of the city. A total of six kilos (13.2 pounds) of coins, rings, pendants and beads were found in a copper cauldron."

"The coins are still being documented, but there are an estimated 20,000 of them. The silver coins date mainly to the 12th century. Some of the coins are embossed with the text KANUTUS, the name Knut in Latin. They are from Knut Eriksson's time as king of Sweden, at the end of the 12th century. Several of the coins are unusual. During the Middle Ages, so-called bishop coins were minted in Europe, meaning coins made for a bishop."

Archaeologists recovered a 12th-century hoard containing about six kilos (13.2 pounds) of silver coins, rings, pendants and beads stored in a deteriorated copper cauldron. The find, located near present-day Stockholm, predates Stockholm's founding in 1252 and represents one of the largest early medieval silver hoards found in Sweden. The coins number an estimated 20,000 and date mainly to the 12th century, including examples embossed KANUTUS from King Knut Eriksson's reign and several uncommon bishop coins showing a bishop with a crozier. The mix of jewelry and coins suggests a wealthy household hid the treasure for safekeeping during turbulent times. The finder reported the discovery and archaeologists documented the site.

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