Fisherman in Sweden Discovers Large Medieval Treasure

A man preparing for fishing in Sweden has unexpectedly become the author of a major archaeological discovery. While digging for worms near his summer house near Stockholm, he accidentally came across a rusty metal pot filled with silver. Inside the pot were jewelry and thousands of coins, and the total weight of the find was about six kilograms.

Archaeologists determined that the coins were minted during the reign of King Canute Eriksson, who ruled Sweden in the second half of the 12th century. The inscription "KANUTUS" can be distinguished on them. According to experts, the treasure was buried around the 12th century, meaning much earlier than the founding of Stockholm itself, which took place only in 1252.

A representative of the Stockholm administration, Sofia Andersson, stated that "this is probably one of the largest medieval silver treasures ever discovered in Sweden." According to her, the pot contained about 20,000 coins, as well as rare "bishop's" coins minted by clergymen.

Historians suggest that the treasure could have been hidden during a period of political turmoil and wars between Swedish noble families.

The treasure is now with specialists who are cleaning and cataloging it. The authorities are deciding which museum the find can be handed over to, and the discoverer will be paid compensation.