In a groundbreaking discovery, a metal detectorist near Thetford, Norfolk, has unearthed a rare silver penny that’s making waves in both the metal detecting and historical communities. This isn’t just any old coin – it’s a piece minted by Athelstan II, also known as Guthrum, a Viking warlord who became a Christian king.
What makes this find particularly exciting for detectorists is that it’s the first coin to benefit from recent changes to the Treasure Act. Dr. Adrian Marsden, a numismatist, explains: “Before the law change, a single precious metal coin find would not have been declared treasure unless it had been adapted into another object like a brooch, no matter how rare.” This means that detectorists now have a better chance of their significant finds being recognized and preserved for public display.
The coin itself tells a fascinating story. Guthrum, originally a Danish invader who fought against Alfred the Great, converted to Christianity as part of a peace agreement. After withdrawing to East Anglia in AD880, he began minting his own coins as ruler of that kingdom. This particular coin, known as an Athelstan II temple-type penny, represents a unique blend of Viking and Anglo-Saxon cultures.
For metal detectorists, this discovery highlights the potential historical significance of their hobby. It demonstrates that even a single coin can provide valuable insights into our past and contribute to our understanding of national heritage.
The changes to the Treasure Act are particularly relevant for the detecting community:
- Previously, an item was only considered treasure if it was at least 300 years old and made partly of precious metal, or was part of a hoard.
- Now, exceptional finds more than 200 years old can be categorized as treasure, regardless of their metal composition, if they provide important insights into the country’s heritage.
This broadened definition opens up new possibilities for detectorists, potentially allowing more of their discoveries to be recognized for their historical value rather than just their material worth.
The story of this coin serves as an inspiration to metal detecting enthusiasts everywhere. It shows that with patience, skill, and a bit of luck, a detectorist can uncover artifacts that rewrite our understanding of history. It also underscores the importance of responsible detecting practices and proper reporting of finds, as these can lead to significant contributions to archaeological and historical research.
For those in the metal detecting community, this discovery is a reminder of the thrill and potential that lies beneath our feet. Every signal could be the next major historical find, waiting to be unearthed and share its story with the world.
