Kirkoswald Hoard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kirkoswald Hoard |
|
|---|---|
Silver trefoil ornament from Kirkoswald Hoard
|
|
| Created | c.865 (deposited) |
| Discovered | 1808 Kirkoswald, Cumbria |
| Culture | Northumbrian |
The Kirkoswald Hoard is a special collection of old coins and a silver decoration. It was found in 1808 in a place called Kirkoswald in Cumbria, UK. This amazing treasure includes 542 copper coins from the Kingdom of Northumbria and a beautiful silver ornament shaped like a trefoil (a three-leaf clover). It was hidden around the year 865, over a thousand years ago!
Contents
How the Kirkoswald Hoard Was Found
The Kirkoswald Hoard was found by chance in 1808. It was hidden near the village of Kirkoswald in Cumbria. The treasure was discovered inside the roots of a tree that had fallen over. We don't know the exact spot where it was found, just that it was somewhere in the Kirkoswald area.
What Was Inside the Hoard?
The Kirkoswald Hoard contained 542 or more special coins called stycas. It also had a beautiful silver ornament shaped like a trefoil.
The Ancient Coins
The coins in the hoard were made by different kings of Northumbria. These kings included Eanred, Aethelred II, Redwulf, and Osberht. Some coins were also made by important church leaders. These were the archbishops of York: Eanbald II, Wigmund, and Wulfhere.
The Silver Ornament
The silver trefoil ornament is very old. It might have been made in the late 700s. Experts have compared its design to other old objects. These include items found in the Trewhiddle Hoard and the West Yorkshire Hoard. Even though the ornament might be older, it was buried at the same time as the coins, around the year 865.
Where Did the Hoard Go?
Soon after it was found, the Kirkoswald Hoard was split up. The silver trefoil ornament was bought by the British Museum. The coins were also divided, and many went into private collections. By 1814, six coins from the hoard were owned by the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle. These coins were given to them by the Atkinson family, who lived nearby. We don't know where the rest of the coins are today.
See also
- List of hoards in Great Britain
- Hexham Hoard
- Elizabeth Pirie
