- Detectorist Morten Eek found a coin near Utstein Monastery in southwestern Norway in April 2025, initially mistaking it for a button.
- Months later, the object was identified as a rare medieval coin from the reign of Magnus Barefoot, who ruled Norway from 1093 to 1103.
- Eek's find is significant as only about 100 coins from the reign of Magnus Barefoot are known to archaeologists.
- The artifact dates back to the late 11th or early 12th century.
- Eek initially assumed he found a post-clothing button commonly found in the area.
- Upon reexamination, Eek and fellow detectorists noticed a cross design on the object's shinier face, indicating it was a coin.
- X-ray imaging revealed a griffin-like design hidden beneath one side’s copper plating.
- Magnus Barefoot is considered Norway's last Viking ruler and enacted significant currency reforms.
- He ordered a reduction in coin weight while maintaining the same amount of silver, increasing their fineness to around 90 percent.
Detectorist Morten Eek made a significant archaeological find in April 2025, unearthing a rare coin from the reign of Magnus Barefoot near Utstein Monastery in southwestern Norway. Initially thought to be a common clothing button, the artifact was later identified as a medieval coin with approximately 90% silver content.12
The coin, dating back to the late 11th century, is one of only about 100 known coins from Magnus Barefoot's reign, which lasted from 1093 to 1103 CE. Eek's discovery highlights the historical significance of Barefoot, Norway's last Viking ruler, who implemented crucial currency reforms during his reign.8
Eek initially mistook the coin for a button, as it was found mixed with metal scrap. However, upon closer examination, he and fellow detectorists noticed a distinct cross design on the coin's surface, leading to its identification as a rare artifact. The coin's copper side showed signs of secondary modification, indicating it had been altered for a different use, with notches suggesting it could have been attached to a chain or cord.6
X-ray imaging further revealed a hidden griffin-like design beneath the copper plating, confirming its significance. This discovery not only enriches the understanding of Norway's medieval history but also emphasizes the importance of metal detecting in uncovering lost artifacts.7
“The coin, made of about 90% silver, was initially mistaken for a button before its true nature was revealed through reexamination. Only around 100 coins from Magnus Barefoot's reign are known, making this discovery significant for historians studying Norway's Viking era.”
