Monogram from An Encyclopedia of Monograms, J. O'Kane, 1884, detachable bail, square, detail border, metal ink accents, smooth background.

Monogram: TSG

Size: 47 x 60 mm

Weight: 40.6 grams

A Viking's Dream

It was the year 867, and Tarben was settling into his new smith shop in the newly-conquered York located in Northumbria. He had been moved to this section of England so that he could work on restoring the armory for the coming of the Great Heathen Army in the next year. As he set the image of Regin on the table in the foundry, he prayed for his favor upon his family.  This was a new appointment that he had worked hard to accomplish, and he knew not fulfilling his task was not an option. The last master craftsman was not able to complete his commission, and that was how he was appointed to the task. Even though he was a newly-made master craftsman, he was ambitious still. This was an old land that the Norse conquered, and there was much opportunity to be had.  As his assistant finished unpacking the tools, Tarben went to his satchel to retrieve his special project. He had, in the late hours, been working on creating a family monogram cast in silver. He secretly hoped for his family to one day become one of the great names of the land. For centuries, his family worked towards achieving the goal of Tarben. Eventually, his descendants claimed the title Earl of Northumberland.  The family monogram that was created long ago is still kept as a priceless family heirloom and a reminder of the Norseman who dared to dream of a better life for his family.