This particular arm-ring was excavated around Wendover, England in 1849. It was made by twisting together a thicker rod and a thinner rod of gold. The date at which this arm-ring was created and when it was inhumed are unknown, however the Norse style and presence in England would likely place it around the 10th century.
Arm-rings were common among the Norse during the Viking Age. They allowed a person to literally wear their wealth, serving not only as a status symbol but also as a way to readily and securely carry riches. The arm-ring could also be hacked into smaller pieces if a smaller quantity of wealth was needed. Because the Norse didn't have a standardized coin system, this hack-silver formed the monetary basis of trade in their settlements. Arm-rings were also often given as gifts between a noble and his retainers, as is reflected in the Anglo-Saxon poem Beowulf. This sort of gift exchange also enhanced the reputation of the noble who gave the rings. A noble who was known to be generous and to have profitable endeavors, and thereby gave many rings, would easily attract a strong group of retainers.¹
Arm-rings are a relatively common find in Norse hoards, which makes drawing conclusions from this arm-ring difficult. If anything, its presence in England is indicative of the Norse presence in England. That being said, it is difficult to affirm to whom this arm-ring belonged – Wendover, England is right about on the border of the Danelaw, and therefore this Arm-ring could have easily been in the possession of either an Englishman or Dane. This being said, the Arm-ring would have been very valuable, and if Norse, would likely have been made from loot from a range of sources in England. At the same time, however, the fact that this Arm-Ring ultimately remained in England is perhaps indicative of the nature of the Danes not only as invaders but also as settlers, who had come to England not just for plunder but also to carve out a new life for themselves.

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