FINE LARGE VIKING WAR ARROWHEAD, 850-1000 AD

Over 5 7/8” (5.91”) length, finely forged iron with slightly rounded cutting edges and cusped bottom. Flared bolster with a tapered tang. The medially ridged point of armor piercing form as used against protected adversaries. Protection at the time was heavy leather or textile garments capable of absorbing considerable energy from an attacking weapon. Thus, this arrow was made for the Viking raids or battle with prepared and armed resistance.  While generally successful owing to their ferocity and speed, resistance was encountered and sometimes it prevailed. They were soundly defeated by Alfred the Great at the Battle of Edington in 878 which halted Viking advances into Wessex.