A rare 900-year-old silver coin, initially mistaken for a common button by a metal detectorist, has been identified as a one-of-a-kind artifact from the reign of Magnus Barefoot, the warrior ruler often called Norway’s last Viking king. Discovered near Utstein Monastery in April 2025, the coin is the first of its type ever found on Norwegian soil, according to the University of Stavanger Museum of Archaeology.
The Discovery: From Scrap Metal to Royal History
Morten Eek, the metal detectorist who uncovered the object, initially dismissed it as a piece of scrap metal. Found 4 to 6 inches deep in a plow layer, the object’s copper-covered side and dark center made it look like a discarded button. Eek stored it alongside other modern coins and trinkets for months before noticing that the reverse side featured metallic characteristics typical of medieval currency.
Upon review, the University of Stavanger Museum of Archaeology confirmed the piece dates to the reign of Magnus Barefoot (1093–1103). The coin is significant not only for its origin but for its transformation; at some point in history, it was repurposed as jewelry. The edge shows two notches, likely used to attach a chain or loop, suggesting the coin remained in circulation or personal use long after it was minted.
Did you know? While often called “Barefoot” or “Barelegs” due to the kilts he wore, Magnus Barefoot was a dedicated military campaigner. He died in 1103 at approximately 30 years old, when he was ambushed and killed during a campaign in Ireland.
Analyzing the Griffin and Cross Motif
To examine the hidden side without damaging the fragile artifact, researchers used X-ray imaging. The scan revealed a griffin—a mythical creature with the body of a lion and features of a bird of prey—paired with a “cross-over-cross” design on the obverse. According to the University of Stavanger, this specific combination is exceptionally rare.
Only four copies of this coin motif are known to exist. One was discovered in the 1863 Sandur hoard in the Faroe Islands, while three others emerged from Denmark’s Mørstad hoard, which was found this past spring and contained nearly 5,000 coins. The rarity of this specific design provides researchers with new evidence regarding the scale and reach of Magnus Barefoot’s minting operations.
Economic Reforms Under Magnus Barefoot
Beyond its rarity, the coin offers a glimpse into Norwegian economic policy. Magnus Barefoot is credited with restoring a high silver standard, ensuring his coins were around 90% silver. This move reversed a trend by earlier Norwegian rulers, who had reduced the silver content of their coins.
With only about 100 coins from Barefoot’s reign identified across 12 different archaeological finds, every new discovery is critical. Researchers note that these artifacts are essential for understanding how coins were produced and circulated in Norway in the late Viking Age and early Middle Ages.
Future Trends in Amateur Archaeology
Experts at the University of Stavanger suggest that major historical re-evaluations are often just one significant find away, highlighting the importance of all new discoveries that are made.
Pro Tip for Detectorists
Alterations, such as the copper plating found on the Utstein coin, are often historical modifications that provide context for how the object was used by previous generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why was the coin covered in copper? The coin was likely converted into jewelry. The copper plate and folded edges allowed it to be worn as an ornament rather than used as currency.
- How many coins from Magnus Barefoot’s reign have been found? Approximately 100 coins across 12 distinct archaeological discoveries have been cataloged by the University of Stavanger.
- Can researchers see the griffin without damaging the coin? Yes. Researchers used X-ray imaging to view the covered side, avoiding the need to remove the fragile copper plating.
- Where was the coin found? It was discovered by a metal detectorist in a field near the Utstein Monastery in southwest Norway.
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