A newly discovered artifact in Denmark may change what we know about the Sutton Hoo helmet, one of Britain’s most treasured archaeological finds. The helmet, long believed to have originated in Sweden, is now the subject of fresh scrutiny after the discovery of a small metal stamp on the island of Tåsinge.

According to a detailed report by Archaeology Mag, the motifs on this metal stamp closely resemble those on the famous Anglo-Saxon helmet, suggesting that it may have been crafted in Denmark instead. This new theory challenges long-standing assumptions about the helmet’s origin, prompting a reevaluation of early European craftsmanship and trade.

A Detectorist’s Lucky Find Could Change European History

In what seemed like an ordinary outing with a metal detector, Danish hobbyist Jan Hjort stumbled upon a small copper-alloy stamp, or patrice, on the island of Tåsinge in the Southern Funen archipelago. At just 5-by-4 centimeters, the artifact may appear modest, but its implications are vast.

‘patrice’ From Tåsinge In Denmark With A Motif That Connects It To The Iconic Sutton Hoo Helmet. Credit The National Museum Of Denmark‘patrice’ From Tåsinge In Denmark With A Motif That Connects It To The Iconic Sutton Hoo Helmet. Credit The National Museum Of Denmark‘Patrice’ from Tåsinge in Denmark with a motif that connects it to the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet. Credit: The National Museum of Denmark

The stamp was soon recognized as a tool used to emboss metal sheets—specifically, with a motif that uncannily matches the one engraved on the Sutton Hoo helmet, unearthed in Suffolk, England, in 1939. That helmet, often dubbed “Britain’s Tutankhamun,” has been central to interpretations of Anglo-Saxon elite culture.

Motif Similarities Point to a Shared Workshop

What makes the discovery extraordinary is not just the stylistic overlap—it’s the technical precision. The motif of a mounted warrior, present on both the helmet and the newly found stamp, features identical details: the horse’s harness, the warrior’s cuff, even the horse’s tail and mane.

Researchers, including Peter Pentz, curator at the National Museum of Denmark, emphasize the likelihood that the stamp and helmet may not just originate from the same region, but possibly from the same group of craftsmen. As Pentz explains :

Peter Pentz, Curator At The National Museum Of DenmarkPeter Pentz, Curator At The National Museum Of DenmarkPeter Pentz, curator at the National Museum of Denmark

Despite being made in very different places, many motifs are clearly inspired by each other. But when the likeness is as strong as it is here, it could mean that they were not only made in the same place but even by the same craftsmen. That could provide strong evidence that the Sutton Hoo helmet was actually made in Tåsinge, which would make it an incredible find.

A New Role for Denmark in the 7th Century

If confirmed, the Danish origin of the Sutton Hoo helmet would challenge long-held assumptions about 7th-century geopolitics. For decades, Denmark has played a supporting role in narratives dominated by England and Sweden. This find suggests it may have been a central power in Northern Europe far earlier than previously assumed.

As Pentz points out :

The Sutton Hoo helmet is iconic worldwide. It is a national treasure for the British on a par with the chariot of the sun for Danes. It would be sensational if this helmet, obviously worn by someone of great importance, possibly a king, was made in Tåsinge. It points to a possible Danish connection to the helmet, but also to the person who wore and was buried with it.

Motif On ‘patrice’ Found By A Detectorist On Tåsinge In The Southern Funen Archipelago In Denmark. Illustration On Motif Mads Lou Bendtsen, The National Museum Of DenmarkMotif On ‘patrice’ Found By A Detectorist On Tåsinge In The Southern Funen Archipelago In Denmark. Illustration On Motif Mads Lou Bendtsen, The National Museum Of DenmarkMotif on ‘patrice’ found by a detectorist on Tåsinge in the Southern Funen archipelago in Denmark. Illustration on motif: Mads Lou Bendtsen, The National Museum of Denmark

His remarks go further, suggesting a much earlier emergence of political unity in Denmark than traditionally believed:

It is still too early to draw any conclusions, but it does indicate that Denmark played a more important role during this period than previously assumed. We often attribute the uniting of the kingdom to Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century, but Denmark could have been relatively united and powerful as early as 600 CE. It is a find that challenges previous theories, and that is always exciting.