A rare ancient toy was discovered during an archaeological excavation in Iceland. While the toy’s time period is known, the animal it depicts remains a subject of debate among researchers.

Archaeological research has been ongoing in the town of Fjörður in Seyðisfjordurr since 2020, according to Ragnheiður Traustadóttir, the excavation director, who spoke with Digital via email.

The excavation has yielded numerous artifacts, but the discovery of a toy like this was a unique find.

“Children are not very prominent in the Viking Age, so we find it remarkable to discover a toy that can be linked to them,” Traustadóttir said. “We also have very few finds in Iceland that are related to children.”

The stone-carved toy is small, measuring approximately 5 centimeters in length and 2.7 centimeters in height. Archaeologists have proposed various theories about the toy animal, with the most prevalent suggestion being a seal. Some believe it represents an Icelandic dog. Despite further research planned for the winter months, researchers may not reach a definitive conclusion regarding the animal depicted.

“This winter, we will examine the finds, including the animal, to see if we can identify it, although it may remain open for discussion,” Traustadóttir told Digital.

Archaeologists were able to establish the toy’s creation date based on its discovery location and material.

“It was found in the floor of the longhouse, a carved animal made from Palagonite tuff. Dating is around 940-1000 Viking Age,” explained Traustadóttir.

The toy’s stone material likely played a significant role in its preservation. Objects made of organic materials, such as wood, are rarely preserved in Iceland, according to Traustadóttir.

The small, meticulously carved ancient toy is one of over 100 gaming pieces unearthed during the excavation.

Many unique discoveries also emerged from the graves that were uncovered.

“In one of the male graves, only the teeth remained, yet he was buried in a boat alongside a dog, horse and grave goods,” Traustadóttir shared.

Among the ancient items found in the grave were beads, gaming pieces, a silver brooch, a silver ring and an ax.

“The woman’s bones had vanished, but her position could be inferred,” Traustadóttir added. “On her chest were two oval bronze brooches, with 11 large beautiful beads lying between them and a small round bronze brooch below. Remnants of clothing were preserved on the brooches. Between the woman’s breasts were iron shears wrapped in a cloth. On her right side was a small oak chest containing a whetstone and flints, and on her left side was a knife and an iron object that could be a key.”

The excavation of Fjörður will continue for two more weeks.