Romania’s Golden Helmet, Two Dacian Bracelets recovered a Year after Dutch Museum Heist
The ancient golden helmet of Cotofenesti and two Dacian bracelets were recovered and presented during a press conference at the Drents Museum on Thursday, April 2, more than a year after the heist that shocked both Romania and the Netherlands.
Dutch prosecutors said the artifacts were handed over by the suspects’ lawyers following procedural agreements with authorities.
One bracelet is still missing and the investigators said they continue to search for it.
“We are incredibly pleased with the return of these extraordinary art treasures. It has been a rollercoaster. Especially for Romania, but also for employees of the Drents Museum,” said Chief Public Prosecutor Corien Fahner at the meeting. “Naturally, we will continue searching for the still missing Dacian bracelet.”
Officials also said the recovered items are largely intact, with the most significant damage affecting an older repair on the helmet, as well as a small dent.
The trial against the three main suspects is set to begin on April 14, 2026.