An Anglo-Saxon coin hoard consisted of hundred of silver coins found here is said to have been deposited circa 995.  The hoard was discovered circa 1848 by a labourer 'on the mountainous part of Bradda Head', 'lying near the surface, near a small hill, and being trodden upon by sheep... Found together in a sort of roll. No other articles were said to be found with them.' 'The bulk sold to a watch maker who melted them down.' 


Coins from the hoard seen by Dickinson were all from the reign of Ethelred II (979-1016) and of 'crux' type. The 'remarkably perfect silver coin of the reign of Ethelred II... found in the Parish of Rushen', and then in possession of Mr McMeiken, of Castletown, probably came from this hoard. 


Only seven coins survive of this major hoard but from a combination of available sources Dolley has concluded that 'the Wessex element is dominant' although there is a 'significant admixture of coin from northern England'.  Dolley further concluded that the Bradda Head hoard corroborates the suggestion the Olaf Tryggvason's return to Norway after he had made peace with Ethelraed in 994/5 was by way of the Irish Sea; the hoard seemingly derived in part from the Danegeld then paid.