A Finnish metal detectorist uncovered a 4.5kg Viking-era treasure in Sysmä, containing coins and silver fragments from across Europe and the Muslim world.
Viking-era treasure found in Finland
A Finnish metal detectorist discovered a Viking-era treasure weighing around 4.5 kilograms in a forested area near Sysmä, about 150 kilometers north of Helsinki. The treasure was buried over a millennium ago and was found in two separate caches, approximately 12 meters apart.Discovery made by Kalle Lappinen
The treasure was found in early September 2026 by Kalle Lappinen, who was scanning a forested area in his region when his metal detector responded to a signal 45 centimeters below the surface. The silver items were found nestled between stones in birch bark sheaths.Historical Museum of Lahti investigates
The discovery was promptly investigated by the Historical Museum of Lahti, which conducted a site excavation the following day, September 4, 2026. Archaeologists recovered nearly 4.5 kilograms of precious metal, consisting of thousands of coins and fragments that are still being inventoried.Treasure includes coins from distant regions
The treasure includes coins from distant regions, minted in what is now Germany, Sweden, or Great Britain, as well as dirhams from the Muslim world. The collection also includes a bracelet and numerous silver fragments, some of which appear to have been deliberately broken.
