Viking Age and Later Iron Axehead Group

Plate with lip to the outer curved edges, knop to the centre of the bow and spurs to the angles; low-relief design of interlaced foliage within a braided band; lateral mounting holes, three studs to the reverse. 14.7 grams, 52 mm



From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.

Comprising a leaf-shaped blade with lozenge cross-section, raised midrib, closed tubular socket; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 1.76 kg total, 43.5 cm including stand



Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector.

The spear belongs to the type A of the first main group of Viking spears, the so-called Frankish spearheads, which occur between 750 and 950 A.D., but mainly in the 8th and 9th centuries. The Mediterranean influence is still evident on the foliate shape of the blade.

Featuring steel flintlock action and spring-hinged triangular section bayonet with sliding retaining catch; the wood stock fitted with brass butt plate, side plate, trigger guard, ramrod mounts and escutcheon; a wood ramrod with brass ram tip and steel screw extractor fitted to underside of barrel; the barrel numbered 'A098' to right side near lock and the bayonet with number '86' at hinge; traces of original blued finish to lock; the lock and bayonet mechanisms in working order. 2.64 kg, 97 cm overall



Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.

Sold as an exempt item under Section 58 (2) of the Firearms Act, 1968, to be held as a curiosity or ornament. No license required but buyer must be over 18 years of age. Overseas bidders should note that, due to UK regulations governing export of all firearms, overseas buyers will need to make arrangements for shipping this lot out of the UK directly, by air freight, with a specialist company or agent.