The N-and C-banding patterns of the chromosomes of the hexaploid wheat cultivar 'Viking', and the hairy-necked line derived from it, were described. Except for chromosome 4B (formerly 4A), no significant variation in banding patterns were found between the two genotypes. In addition to a 5BS.7BS (5BL.7BL) translocation in both genotypes, the presence of a small 5RL rye segment in a terminal position on the long arm of chromosome 4B was suggested by banding and confirmed by meiotic analysis, and by the hairy neck marker as well as by rye-specific leaf esterase bands in the translocation line. The translocation breakpoint is presumed to be located in the distal 4BL2.2 and/or 5RL2.3 band. The hairy-necked 'Viking' was shown to be copper efficient. Its utilization in wheat breeding programmes is proposed.