New Permanent Exhibition: “Reconstruction of the Biesenbrow Gold Coin Hoard”

A sensational piece of local history is back—at least in its reconstructed form: The new permanent exhibition, “Reconstruction of the Biesenbrow Gold Coin Hoard,” is now on view in the library at the Angermünde Museum.

The Biesenbrow Treasure—An Archaeological Mystery

Between 1840 and 1885, farmworkers made a spectacular discovery while harvesting potatoes near Biesenbrow: Byzantine gold coins—known as solidi—dating from the 5th and 6th centuries. Teacher Wilhelm Dalichow documented the find in 1885. According to his report, there were at least 200 coins, which would make it the largest known gold hoard from the Migration Period in eastern Germany.

But for a long time, the treasure remained a mystery. Many did not believe it existed—especially since almost all of the coins had been melted down. Only four originals have survived; they are now on display in museums in Berlin and Brandenburg.

Scientific Validation & Modern Treasure Hunt

It wasn’t until 2011 that a research project led by Professor Felix Biermann provided definitive proof: During systematic excavations, eight gold coins and a clay treasure vessel were discovered—so the treasure had indeed existed.

Reconstruction—A Passion for Private Collecting

Lothar Tewes, a coin collector from Bernau, devoted decades to reconstructing the legendary gold hoard. He acquired 27 original solidi from the relevant period from dealers around the world, which paint an authentic picture of the lost treasure.

Thanks to support from the Sparkasse Uckermark Community Foundation, the Biesenbrow Rural Culture Association “Die Erben von Kummerow” e. V., and private donors, the city of Angermünde was able to acquire this unique collection.

The Exhibition

Twenty-four of the 27 coins are now on public display at the Angermünde Library. Accompanying informational texts in the display case provide fascinating insights into the history of their discovery, their historical context, and the journey the coins took to Angermünde.

Important: These are not the originals from Biesenbrow, nor are they reproductions or replicas—they are genuine, contemporary comparable pieces from the 5th and 6th centuries!