Striking Sihtric Silkbeard Coins Discovered in Isle of Man Treasure Hoard

In December 2020, metal detectorist Kath Giles found a spectacular hoard of Viking Age treasure on the Isle of Man. In April 2021, Kath did it again! Dating to around AD 1030, this latest find has silver coins and pieces of cut silver armbands. The coins are pennies and were minted in England, Dublin, modern day Germany and the Isle of Man, demonstrating some of the extent of Viking trade and influence. Representations of kings Sihtric Silkbeard and Cnut can be seen. The cut silver would have been used to pay for goods and there is a lead weight which may also have been used in trading. The earliest coins date from the late 900s and so this stash of wealth may have been built up over a few years – a kind of Viking piggy bank! In July 2021, the artefacts were declared to be Treasure at an inquest at Douglas Courthouse. This fascinating Viking Age find will go on display at the Manx Museum in Douglas.