Viking Hoard Dirham Coin Reproduction Necklace

Create your own Viking coin hoard with this reproduction Umayyad Dynasty dirhen (dirham) coin necklace.

Coins of this type minted between 708-709 have been found across Europe illustrating the breadth of Viking travel and trade. The Umayyad Dynasty was one of the four major Islamic caliphates established after the death of the prophet Muhammad in 632. Thousands of Arabic silver coins (dirhams) survive in Viking-Age hoards, settlements and graves across the Scandinavian world indicating the importance of Eastern trade routes via Russia and Byzantium.

Dirhams have been found in major hoards including the 10^th century Vale of York hoard found in Yorkshire England and the 9^th-10^th century Furness Hoard discovered in Cumbria, England. An original artefact of this coin is currently on display at the Museum of Victoria Melbourne Australia and can be viewed on the following link

http://collections.museumvictoria.com.au/items/51287

Arabic coins were valued for their silver purity within the Scandinavian metal-weight economy and a significant number appear in the archaeological record as ornaments to be worn on necklaces, most likely as part of ladies clothing and dress. The use of coins in Viking jewellery from different localities was most likely symbolic and a method of the owner indicating their wealth and status.

Extant evidence for the use of dirham coins on necklaces or pendants can be seen on the Blekinge hoard necklace from Sweden which contains 10 coins. As well as the Linnaniemi, Hämeenlinna Castle Häme hoard Finnish necklace which contains a selection of silver coins and fragments of jewellery originating from different parts of Europe and the Middle East. Other notable finds include the Alankohalskedjan necklace and Lehdosmäki Hauho necklace from Finaland and the Paunküla, necklace from Estonia.

These coins are hand stamped and rivetted by a passionate reenactor who performs historical coin minting demonstrations. As each coin is hand stamped small variations may exist adding to the hand made character of the coins.  

The coins measures 32.6mm by 26mm

Includes a leather or woven cord.