A simple magnet fishing expedition nets an amateur a thousand-year-old Viking sword

A 1,100-year-old Viking sword has been discovered at the bottom of a river in the United Kingdom.

In the heart of England, amid the serene waters of the Cherwell River in Oxfordshire, an extraordinary find was made in November 2023. Trevor Penny, a magnet fishing enthusiast, retrieved from the depths a historical treasure: a Viking sword dating back over a thousand years. This artifact, a witness to the Nordic incursions on British lands, unveils a forgotten chapter of history.


For Trevor Penny, the day seemed like any other, only retrieving valueless metal debris until then. His find was met with disbelief: a heavily corroded sword whose historical significance was only recognized after being validated by experts. The confirmation that the sword was an authentic Viking relic was a moment of revelation for Penny and the archaeological community.

The Vikings, originating from Scandinavia, have left an indelible mark on the history of the British Isles, sailing, raiding, and trading as early as the 8th century. This sword, dating from a period between 850 and 975 AD, is a direct vestige of those ancient times when warriors and explorers roamed the seas in search of glory and wealth.

Now under the care of the Oxford museum services, this sword may soon be presented to the public. The find is not just an achievement for Trevor Penny but highlights the richness of Britain's submerged heritage. It reminds us that history can emerge where least expected, such as here, along the bends of a tranquil river.


This discovery also sparked a minor dispute with local authorities over magnet fishing rights, quickly resolved by Trevor Penny's promise to donate the sword to a museum. This gesture underscores the importance of heritage preservation and the cooperation between treasure finders and cultural institutions.

Magnet fishing: an exploration of urban and natural depths

Magnet fishing, often considered a hobby or a treasure hunt, is an activity that involves using a powerful magnet to retrieve metallic objects from the bottoms of waterways, lakes, or canals. This practice combines exploration, history, and ecology.

The magnets used in this activity are typically neodymium magnets, known for their exceptional strength despite their compact size. Attached to a strong rope, the magnet is cast into the water and dragged along the bottom, in search of lost, discarded, or concealed objects. Magnet fishing appeals to history buffs, in pursuit of lost relics, as well as environmental advocates, keen to clear the waters of metal waste. Finds can vary greatly, from simple trash or everyday tools to objects of significant historical and cultural value.

Magnet fishing also raises legal and safety issues. Depending on the jurisdiction, it may be necessary to obtain permission to engage in this activity, especially to comply with laws on the protection of archaeological heritage. Moreover, handling potentially hazardous items, such as unexploded munitions, requires caution and responsibility.