In a groundbreaking find, archaeologists excavating beneath what is now a Lloyds Bank branch in York, England, stumbled upon a weapon of knowledge—fossilized human excrement from the Viking era! Discovered in 1972, this remarkable relic offers an unprecedented glimpse into 9th-century life, revealing secrets that continue to captivate historians.

Meet the 'Lloyds Bank Turd': A Unique Viking Treasure

This astonishing coprolite measures about 20 cm long and 5 cm wide, believed to have belonged to a Viking in Jórvík—today’s York, a bustling commercial hub of its time. The fossilized waste, famously dubbed the "Lloyds Bank turd," benefitted from York’s unique damp soil, allowing it to survive in pristine condition for over a millennium.

Secrets of the Viking Diet Unlocked

Analysis of this ancient waste has transformed our understanding of Viking diets. Researchers discovered significant amounts of undigested fiber, notably from bran, pointing towards a diet rich in whole grains. Yet, surprisingly, there was little evidence of fruits and vegetables, hinting at an imbalanced diet that likely made these ancient folks prone to nutritional deficiencies.

A Parasite-Ridden Snapshot of Health

The coprolite also reveals unsettling truths about health during the Viking age. Parasitic worm eggs, including those of whipworms and roundworms, were found nestled within the fossil. Such infestations highlight the dismal sanitary conditions of the time, likely resulting in abdominal pain, malnutrition, and developmental challenges, particularly in children.

A Crown Jewel of Archaeological Finds

Despite being a fossilized excrement, this discovery is hailed as one of the most significant archaeological artifacts. Dr. Andrew ‘Bone’ Jones, a leading paleoscatologist, has gone as far as to liken its value to that of crown jewels, estimating it to be worth around $39,000—making it one of the priciest pieces of ancient waste known to man. This unique find not only expands our knowledge of Viking life but also proves that history often hides in the most unexpected places.