What do archaeologists and pirates have in common? They both set out in search of treasure. However, archaeologists, being the more ethical of the two, do not resort to illegal activities in pursuit of their goals. Yet, the treasures they unearth often surpass anything a pirate could ever hope to find. In this video, we’re thrilled to share some of the most remarkable treasures discovered by archaeologists.
Amateur archaeologists Theres Refsgaard and Brian Christensen stumbled upon an extraordinary find on the Danish island of Hjarnø in 2016. Initially uncertain of its value, they sought expert opinion at a nearby museum in Velje. The experts’ reaction indicated they had unearthed something significant: a collection of gold objects dating back to the German Iron Age, crafted during the 6th century. The 32 artifacts, including beads, needles, pendants, and coins, boasted intricate designs previously unseen by archaeologists, hinting at contact between the island’s inhabitants and the Roman Empire.
While discovering gold treasure is a dream for any archaeologist, some finds surpass expectations. In late 2020, Farit and Poras stumbled upon an unparalleled discovery in Turkey: a gold deposit estimated to hold nearly 100 tons of gold, worth approximately $6 billion. This remarkable find, made accidentally while Farit was working for a fertilizer company near Soma in western Turkey, promises to significantly boost Turkey’s economy once fully extracted.
However, treasure discoveries need not always be vast to be captivating. A single gold coin can captivate historians, such as the one found in Fredenbeck, Germany, in December 2017. Dating back to the year 342, during the reign of Roman Emperor Constans, this unique coin, known as a “solidus,” is the only surviving example of its kind worldwide. Its discovery outside the traditional borders of the Roman Empire suggests a fascinating tale of ancient trade and diplomacy.
The British Isles have also yielded extraordinary treasures, such as the Galloway Hoard discovered by metal detectorist Derek McLennan in 2014. Comprising over 100 Viking artifacts, the hoard includes a magnificent silver Anglo-Saxon cross, adorned with intricate gold leaf decorations. This exceptional find sheds light on Viking craftsmanship and their presence in the British Isles over 1,000 years ago.
Similarly, Slovakia revealed its ancient riches in late 2018 with the discovery of 40 silver coins known as “tetradrachms.” These coins, dating back to the Celtic era, offer valuable insights into the region’s rich history and cultural exchanges during ancient times.
But treasures aren’t always ancient. In 1941, the SS Gairsoppa, laden with $200 million worth of Indian silver destined for the UK’s war effort, sank off the coast of Ireland after being torpedoed by a German U-boat. Decades later, in 2011, the wreckage was located, revealing a remarkable cache of silver still waiting to be salvaged.
From ancient artifacts to modern-day discoveries, each treasure unearthed by archaeologists offers a glimpse into humanity’s past and enriches our understanding of history. As we continue to explore the depths of our planet, who knows what other treasures lie waiting to be discovered? Stay tuned for more fascinating revelations from the world of archaeology. Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications to be the first to know when our next video drops. Thank you for watching, and see you soon!
