The artefacts of Viking York

At Coppergate, archaeologists found a metal padlock and key, which suggests the owner was rich. Whoever owned them would have controlled access to the home and to valuables that were locked away. They also found 42 pairs of ice skates, made from horse or cattle leg bones, and used for transportation and leisure. A discovered wooden gaming board with walrus ivory pieces tells us that the Vikings liked to play boardgames. A discovered coin die with a design referencing St Peter and Thor shows how religious beliefs blended in Viking York.