Replica of sword scabbard decorations

The original sword scabbard fitting was discovered in the richest grave at Veien, known as the King's Mound, dating from the transition between the Roman and Migration periods around 400 CE. The grave contained an unburned skeleton of a man. Unlike most other graves at Veien, which were cremation burials, the King's Mound is notable for this unique inhumation. Among the artifacts found in this grave are the silver fittings, a bronze belt set, a drinking horn with bronze fittings, a bronze weighing scale, gold rings, a mosaic bead, fine pottery, and remnants of textiles.

The sword scabbard suggests that the man was a high-ranking warrior, possibly a local chieftain with a substantial armed force. The wealth of the burial corresponds with the large hall buildings discovered at Veien, indicating a space capable of hosting both the local population and powerful allies.  

Swords, unlike spears, arrows, and bows, lack utility in hunting, thus they carry a much stronger association with wealth and status. A sword is often revered as the ultimate symbol of power, commonly indicative of graves belonging to elite members of society.