A tip about a swerving van leads police to 66,000 US silver coins in a fraud case

Investigators tracking a money laundering scheme in Norway made a significant discovery last year when a van unexpectedly swerved on a highway near Oslo. This tip led authorities to the hidden stash of U.S. silver coins.

Upon stopping the vehicle in Baerum, west of the capital, in April 2025, officers found tens of thousands of American Eagle silver coins. A second vehicle that arrived shortly after was also loaded with more of the precious metal. In total, nearly 67,000 coins were recovered, valued at over $2.65 million.

Three Norwegians were sentenced to prison for aggravated money laundering, accused of participating in a major investment scheme in the United States that led to the conversion of funds into millions of dollars' worth of coins. Two Britons were acquitted. The victims, whose identities remain undisclosed, may have their assets returned once the legal proceedings conclude.

This was not the first haul of silver coins from Norway. In 2019, 79,500 coins were seized. The investigation continues for more missing U.S. silver coins, at the request of American authorities. The U.S. Mint produces these coins in various metals, with their value fluctuating due to silver's price increases.