The Nibelung treasure is a legendary hoard of gold and precious items from Germanic mythology, particularly associated with the epic poem Nibelungenlied. According to the tale, the treasure was originally owned by the Nibelungs, a race of dwarfs, and was later claimed by the hero Siegfried after he defeated the dragon Fafnir. In the story, the treasure brings misfortune and tragedy to those who possess it, leading to betrayal and conflict among characters. The Nibelung treasure symbolizes greed and the destructive power of wealth, making it a central theme in various adaptations of the myth, including operas by Richard Wagner.