Penning, Sigtuna, Olof Skötkonung, circa 1000–1020

Scandinavians had close contact with the powerful Byzantine Empire through eastern trade routes during the Viking Age. This historical link is reflected in the designs of coins dating back to this period. They demonstrate the rich cultural exchange. This coin resembles a Byzantine coin minted for Constantine VII and Romanus II.

In Scandinavia, the city of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) was referred to as Miklagård. There are tales of Norsemen who were part of what was known as the Varangian Guard and worked as guards for the Byzantine emperor in Constantinople.

Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Ekonomiska museet - Kungliga myntkabinettet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 119727_KMK

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