Helmet of Coțofenești facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Helmet of Coțofenești |
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Golden Helmet of Coțofenești
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| Material | Gold |
| Created | between 450 – 400 BC |
| Discovered | 1929 Vărbilău, Prahova County, Romania |
| Discovered by | Traian Simion |
| Present location | Unknown |
The Golden Helmet of Coțofenești is a very old helmet made of gold. It belonged to the Getae or Dacian people, who lived in ancient times. This special helmet was created around 450 to 400 BC.
It was found in a village in Prahova County, Romania. For a while, it was shown at the National History Museum of Romania in Bucharest. Sadly, the helmet was stolen in 2025 during an art theft at the Drents Museum in the Netherlands. It was there as part of a traveling exhibit.
How the Helmet Was Found
In 1929, a young boy named Traian Simion accidentally found the helmet. He was in a place called "Vârful Fundăturii" near the village of Poiana Coțofenești. This village is now known as Vărbilău in Prahova County, Romania.
A professor named Ioan Andrieșescu, who studied ancient history at the University of Bucharest, investigated the discovery site. His team of archaeologists found that the helmet was not part of a hidden gold treasure or a burial site. Instead, it was found in an area where Geto-Dacian people lived. This area was part of the La Tène culture, an important period in European history.
Archaeologists believe the helmet was a "stray find." This means it was likely lost or left behind, rather than being buried on purpose. Only a few pieces of old pottery were found nearby. The helmet was then kept safe at the National History Museum of Romania.
The Helmet Is Stolen
On January 25, 2025, officials in the Netherlands announced some sad news. The Golden Helmet of Coțofenești had been stolen. It was on loan to the Drents Museum in Assen when the theft happened. Several other valuable items were also taken during the robbery.
See also
