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Viking-Age Lead Weights from Cottam

Abstract This paper introduces a new dataset of Viking-Age lead weights, found over the last three decades at Cottam on the Yorkshire Wolds. The weights generate new insights into contemporary lead weight forms, functions, and weight standards. We compare the Cottam weights with other lead weights from contemporary sites in Britain, Ireland and Scandinavia, and suggest that they belong to a Scandinavian lead weight tradition. We also review the possible functions of lead weights, and suggest that the Cottam finds were scale weights, intended for use with hand-held balances, most likely for the weighing of staple commodities in exchange. The results of metrological analysis imply that the weights were manufactured in accordance with established Scandinavian weight units, specifically with an øre (ounce) of c. 24g. In this way, the paper contributes important new evidence for the existence and use of Scandinavian weighing systems in Viking-Age England.