A rare Byzantine gold coin, dating back over a millennium, has been discovered in Vestre Slidre, a mountainous region in central Norway. The artifact, known as a "histamenon nomisma," was introduced around 960 C.E. and served as standard currency in the Byzantine Empire. This find is notable not only for its age and origin but also for the exceptional condition in which it was preserved.

Details of the Discovery

The coin was found by a metal detectorist in Vestre Slidre, located in Norway's Innlandet County. Despite being buried for centuries, the coin remains largely unchanged from when it was lost, possibly around a thousand years ago. One side of the coin features an embossed image of Christ holding a Bible, accompanied by a Latin inscription translating to "Jesus Christ, King of those who reign." The reverse side depicts Byzantine emperors Basil II and Constantine VIII, with a Greek inscription stating "Basil and Constantine, emperors of the Romans." These details suggest the coin was minted between 977 and 1025 C.E.

Historical Context

The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was a dominant power during the coin's minting period. Its capital, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), was a significant center for trade and culture. The presence of such a coin in Norway, over 1,600 miles from its origin, indicates the extensive trade networks and interactions between distant regions during that era.

Possible Routes to Norway

Several theories exist regarding how the coin arrived in Norway:

• 
  

  Royal Acquisition: Norwegian King Harald Hardråde, who ruled from 1046 to 1066 C.E., served as a guard in the Byzantine Empire's capital before ascending to the throne. During his service, it was customary for guards to claim valuables upon an emperor's death. Given that three emperors died during Harald's tenure, he could have acquired the coin and brought it back to Norway.

  
  


• 
  

  Trade Routes: The coin might have entered Norway through early trade routes, particularly those associated with the salt trade, which had transport paths running across the country.

  
  

Significance of the Find

This discovery adds to a series of significant archaeological finds in Norway. Earlier this year, a metal detectorist uncovered a collection of gold jewelry on the southern island of Rennesøy, near Stavanger. The find included nine pendants, three rings, and ten gold pearls, all dating back approximately 1,500 years. Additionally, dozens of ancient gold-foil figures depicting Norse gods were found at a pagan temple site near Vingrom, about 100 miles south of Oslo.

Future Investigations

Due to the late-season discovery of the coin, further investigations at the site are scheduled for the following year. Archaeologists aim to explore the area to uncover additional artifacts and gain a deeper understanding of the region's historical connections.