Finder of Viking Coin Treasure Gets $600,000
A treasure hunter who discovered nearly 500 silver Viking coins by metal detecting on the Isle of Man will finally receive $600,000 in compensation.
Andy Whewell found 464 silver Viking coins, 26 silver ingots and an armlet in a field in Glenfaba in March 2003.
The coins were declared Treasure Trove in August of that year, with resulting expectations of receiving fair market value for the hoard.
However, Whewell and Manx National Heritage, the government agency responsible for protecting and promoting the cultural historical heritage of the Isle of Man, could not come to an agreement over the value of the coins and other artifacts.
