Vikings of Maine: How an ancient coin could reshape world history (video)

A Norwegian coin discovered at an archaeological site in Maine in 1957 may significantly alter the timeline of European presence in North America. Known as the "Maine penny," this artifact could serve as evidence that the Vikings reached the eastern shores of what is now the United States centuries before traditional accounts suggest, writes the Daily Mail.

Historical records confirm that Norwegian sailors from Scandinavia reached Greenland and Newfoundland in Canada by the late 10th century.

The coin, believed to date from this period, may indicate that Norwegian explorers from Greenland ventured even further south, possibly reaching Maine.

While some specific details about the coin's discovery have been lost to history, experts suggest that it is substantial evidence that the Vikings ventured beyond their known settlements in Newfoundland.

The Maine State Museum, where the artifact is housed, leans towards the view that the coin is a testament to early European presence on the North American continent, predating Columbus by over 500 years.

Former chief archaeologist of the museum, Bruce Bourque, acknowledged significant interest among researchers in the idea that Norwegian explorers extensively traveled across North America.

At the same time, senior researcher at the University of Maine, Gal Burns, noted that this coin could link Viking influence to the region and potentially change our understanding of Norse activity in Maine.

Burns, who has studied Norwegian influences in North America in detail, shared that many locals believe the coin supports the theory that the Vikings reached this state.

This artifact holds particular significance as the only known item of Norwegian origin found in the United States, unlike the Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland, which is regarded as the first confirmed European settlement in North America.

At the site of the coin's discovery, numerous artifacts were found, including copper items, stone tools, fire pits, and numerous arrowheads. However, aside from the coin, no other Scandinavian artifacts were uncovered at the site.

This uniqueness suggests either a limited Viking presence or sporadic contacts through trade with indigenous communities, as numerous Norwegian coins would likely have been found if there had been prolonged Norse activity.

While the presence of a single Norwegian coin may hint at ancient contacts, the absence of other Norse artifacts makes experts cautious about drawing conclusions regarding Viking settlement.

In any case, the coin remains a fascinating scientific mystery that drives researchers to uncover more about North America's past.

We also reported on excavations at the Castel site in Serbia. Recently, archaeologists uncovered an ancient necropolis.