Ten Rare Silver Coins Discovered in the Altmark - Rare 12th-Century Silver Coins Unearthed in Saxony-Anhalt Reveal Medieval Secrets

A rare discovery of ten identical 12th-century silver coins has been made near Neulingen in Saxony-Anhalt. The find, uncovered by a volunteer heritage conservationist in March 2024, consists of thin, one-sided bracteates never before documented in standard numismatic records. These coins appear to have been minted under Otto II, Margrave of Brandenburg, known as 'the Generous'.

The coins depict a margrave in armour and helmet, holding a sword and a flag. Their identical design suggests either deliberate selection or widespread regional use at the time they were buried. Experts believe they originated from Stendal, whose minting district in the late Middle Ages stretched into the northern Altmark.

This discovery sheds new light on coin circulation and regional trade in medieval central Germany. Bracteates dominated transactions from the mid-12th to the 14th century, and this hoard provides the first secure evidence of this previously unknown type. The concentration of ten identical coins points to organised minting policies under Otto II's rule, offering rare insight into his economic strategies.

The find also strengthens understanding of how these coins moved along trade routes. Unlike thicker, two-sided coins, bracteates were thin and easily produced, making them practical for local commerce. Their presence in Neulingen confirms their role in connecting markets across the Altmark region.

The ten bracteates will now be studied further to confirm their exact origins and circulation patterns. Their discovery fills a gap in historical records, providing tangible proof of Otto II's influence on medieval coinage. The find also highlights the importance of volunteer efforts in uncovering hidden pieces of regional history.