Hack silver is an intentionally broken silver object used as currency and raw material.
Hack silver frequently appears in treasures finds from the Viking Age, and more rarely in finds from the early Middle Ages. Hack silver was a major part of the economy in Viking Age trading posts. Silver jewelry – or various other silver objects – were cut or hacked off in pieces, the size of which was determined by weight.
The Viking Age, ca. 800 – ca. 1050, is a period from which large amounts of treasure has been found in the North and the Baltic Sea area. The treasures usually contained rich amounts of precious metal (intact and in pieces), especially rings braided from silver thread, bars, and coins. The finds have the characteristics of hidden valuables.
Without an actual monetary economy, Vikings determined value according to weight. Trade, pillaging and taxes in Western and Eastern Europe lead to large amounts of silver accumulating in Scandinavia, particularly in the form of silver coins.
