Metal detectorists in Norway have uncovered the country’s largest-ever Viking Age coin hoard near the village of Rena.

More than 3,150 silver coins have been recovered so far after an initial discovery of 19 coins prompted a larger excavation.

The coins, dated to the late 10th and early 11th centuries, were mostly minted in England and Germany during the reigns of rulers such as Cnut the Great and Harald Hardrada.

Experts say the find offers new insight into Norway’s economy during a period of political upheaval and Viking expansion, CBS News has reported.

Archaeologists described it as an exceptionally rare discovery that may represent a once-in-a-career find.