VIKING GILT BRONZE BEAD, 866-1067 AD

Slightly over 1/4 “ (0.28”) diameter.  Cast, of medially ridged bun form, originally gilt with the gold now restored. Beads were valued more than gold to Vikings and they produced them as well as pillaged and ransomed for them. In the 10th century, they went to Indonesia specifically to procure a ransom of their legendary miniature beads. These large beads were made by Vikings and are suitable for modern bead creations.