Auction Name: 2025 December 8 Arms & Armor, Civil War & Militaria Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 40002

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6325*40002

Late Viking Sword.

A well-preserved late Viking sword measuring 37-inches overall, with a double-edged blade 31-inches in length. The blade has a single broad fuller running almost to the tip, a hallmark of Viking and transitional early medieval design. The cross guard (quillons) spans 4 1/2-inches, and the grip, measuring 4-inches, remains bare to the metal, showing no covering beyond its iron construction. The pommel is intact, its surface displaying a light verdigris patina from age.

Of particular note are the traditional Viking silver wire inlays, which include a line of silver Christian crosses worked into both sides of the guard. These crosses, set alongside the conventional Viking decorative scheme, mark the weapon as belonging to a warrior who had embraced Christianity. Such features place the sword in the period around 950-1000 A.D., at the close of the Viking Age and the dawn of the medieval era. The combination of Norse craftsmanship and overt Christian symbolism speaks to the cultural and spiritual transition of its owner, making this piece a rare artifact of both martial and religious history. Note: Accompanied by the consignor's binder containing online research and printed reference materials related to the period and to swords of this type. This packet provides useful contextual information to complement the piece being offered.

According to the consignor, a PhD from the Plantation Historical Museum examined the sword and described it as a very rare and important find, particularly notable for its excellent condition and its connection to the Christianization of Scandinavia.

Condition: In relic state, consistent with excavated Viking swords. The blade shows heavy patination with edge nicks and corrosion, though the fuller remains visible. The guard retains traces of silver inlay, including the crosses, now worn with age. The grip is bare to the metal. The pommel is intact but exhibits surface scratches and edge losses, with original details now obscured by wear. These age-related flaws are typical for a sword of this period and do not detract from the rarity and significance of the piece.

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