Archaeometallurgical investigations of a Viking brass ingot hoard from the Hedeby Harbor in northern Germany
Stephen W. Merkel
Abstract A hoard of twenty-five copper-alloy bar ingots was discovered on the edge harbor Viking-period settlement Hedeby during excavations in 1980s. The typology and location indicate a date early 9th century AD. Each ingot sampled analyzed by mass spectrometry elemental compositions lead isotope ratios were used to assess degree standardization explore question source. results show that bars are made freshly produced, standardized, high-quality brass alloy. analysis indicates is not consistent with ore deposits Rhine area, commonly assumed be source northern Europe Viking Age. possibly products originating from Balkans or Andalusia, thus, provide further evidence importance long-distance trade raw materials Middle Ages.
Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports