Vale of York Hoard

Definition

The Vale of York Hoard is a significant archaeological discovery consisting of over 600 Viking Age silver coins, jewelry, and other precious items, unearthed in 2007 near Harrogate, England. This hoard is considered one of the largest collections of Viking treasure found in Britain and provides crucial insights into the economic practices, trade networks, and cultural interactions during the Viking Age.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Vale of York Hoard was discovered by a metal detectorist in a field, highlighting the role of amateur archaeology in uncovering important historical artifacts.
2. The hoard includes not just coins but also ingots, jewelry, and other decorative items, showcasing the wealth and craftsmanship of the Viking Age.
3. Many of the coins in the hoard are Islamic dirhams, indicating the extensive trade connections Vikings had with cultures far beyond their own.
4. The hoard is believed to have been buried around 927 AD, during a time when the Viking presence in Britain was significant and consolidation of power was occurring.
5. Items from the Vale of York Hoard are displayed in various museums, providing valuable educational resources about Viking culture and economy.

Review Questions

• How does the Vale of York Hoard contribute to our understanding of Viking economic practices?
  • The Vale of York Hoard sheds light on Viking economic practices by revealing the significance of silver as a form of currency during this period. The presence of over 600 coins and ingots indicates that trade was not only prevalent but also integral to Viking society. Additionally, the variety of items found in the hoard reflects the interconnectedness between different cultures through trade routes, showing that Vikings were active participants in a broader economic network.
• Discuss the implications of the Vale of York Hoard on our knowledge about Viking trade routes and their cultural interactions.
  • The Vale of York Hoard emphasizes the complexity and extent of Viking trade routes during the Viking Age. The inclusion of Islamic dirhams in the hoard demonstrates direct trade links with far-reaching cultures, suggesting that Vikings were not isolated but engaged with various civilizations across Europe and Asia. This interaction likely facilitated cultural exchange and influenced both Viking and foreign societies through shared ideas, goods, and technologies.
• Evaluate how hoarding practices, as exemplified by the Vale of York Hoard, reflect societal values and conditions during the Viking Age.
  • Hoarding practices like those demonstrated by the Vale of York Hoard reveal much about societal values and conditions during the Viking Age. The act of burying valuables suggests a community response to uncertainty or impending conflict, highlighting concerns for security and wealth preservation. This practice indicates that material wealth was highly valued, while also reflecting a belief in future recovery or resurgence, as individuals or groups anticipated reclaiming their buried treasures when circumstances improved.

Related terms

Viking Trade Routes: The extensive networks used by Vikings for trade, connecting Scandinavia to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas.

Silver Economy: The economic system in which silver was used as a primary medium of exchange during the Viking Age, influencing trade practices and wealth accumulation.

Hoarding Practices: The common practice among individuals or communities of burying or hiding valuable items, often during times of crisis or conflict, reflecting societal values and economic conditions.