1. Raiding and Plundering: The Vikings conducted numerous raids on coastal settlements, monasteries, and towns in Europe and beyond. They often targeted wealthy monasteries and churches, which were known to possess valuable treasures, including gold and silver artifacts, jewelry, and coins.
2. Trading: The Vikings were also active participants in trade networks. They traded with various cultures and civilizations, including the Anglo-Saxons, Franks, and Arabs. The Vikings exchanged goods such as furs, slaves, amber, and walrus ivory for gold and silver.
3. Tribute and Ransom: In some instances, the Vikings extorted tribute payments or ransoms from conquered regions or settlements. These payments were often made in gold or silver to avoid further attacks or ensure the release of captives.
4. Control of Trade Routes: The Vikings had a strong presence in controlling important trade routes, particularly in the Baltic Sea and North Atlantic regions. By exercising control over these routes, they were able to levy tolls on passing merchants and traders, thereby accumulating wealth in gold and silver.
5. Mining: Although not widespread, the Vikings did engage in some mining activities to obtain precious metals. They extracted silver from mines in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
6. Looting Graves and Burial Sites: The Vikings sometimes resorted to looting graves and burial mounds, especially in areas where they knew valuable artifacts or treasures might be buried.
It is important to note that the acquisition of gold and silver was not the sole motivation for Viking raids and expeditions. They were also driven by a desire for power, land, and prestige within their own society.