1980 Axe
1980) RARE VIKING WAR AXE CIRCA 10TH CENTURY WITH PARTIAL HAFT WITH COPPER SLEEVE MUSEUM QUALITY:
Introduction: This axe has a striking similarity to the Langeid Broadaxe, a highly specialized Viking battle-axe dating to the first half of the 11th century.The Langeid Broadaxe was discovered in 2011 during excavations at a burial ground in Langeid, Norway, in grave 8 alongside a famous ornate Viking sword, suggesting it belonged to a wealthy or high-ranking warrior. It was designed for two-handed use and is often referred to as a “Dane axe” or “long axe”.
The axe under discussion is exceptionally similar.
Discussion: The Viking or Danish/Dane war axe has a wide, thin blade, typically 6 to 12 inches in length. Axes with thick blades are not war axes; they are farming axes. Almost all the axes you have seen offered, especially on the internet, as a Viking war ax have not been. The haft of the Viking war ax could measure 3 to 4 feet in length, with ceremonial examples having longer hafts.
While originally used by Vikings, the Dane ax spread into areas with significant Viking influence, including England, Ireland, and Normandy. By the 10th century, the Dane ax was a popular weapon choice in these regions, particularly for the elite. The Dane Axe is depicted throughout the well-known Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidery depicting the conquest of England by William the Conqueror. The Danish ax remained a popular choice through the 12th century. After this time, the Danish axe evolved, eventually leading to the poleaxe.
Approximate Dimensions:
Condition: Superb, museum quality.