The Coppergate Helmet AH2153 by Hanwei
The Coppergate Helmet was recovered during excavations in the ancient walled city of York in 1982. Dating from the 8th century, the Anglo-Saxon is of great archeological importance. The inscription on the crest is an invocation for protection from the helmet's owner Oshere to the Holy Trinity. This reconstruction clearly illustrates the skill of the 8th century craftsmen.

York Archaeology
One afternoon in May 1982 the claw of a mechanical digger struck something which might have been a stone and the operator stopped to check. It was no stone but a magnificent iron and brass helmet, a triumph of Anglo-Saxon art and craftsmanship.

The site was Coppergate where the famous Viking Age discoveries had been uncovered. Excavations had finished but development on the site was still being watched by archaeologists. The helmet had lain only centimeters beneath the surface, protected by a 19th century brick chimney above. It lay on its side in a simple wood-lined pit together with a surprising assortment of other objects. A cheek piece and extension to protect the nose were visible and, through a gap where the mechanical digger had just caught the top of the helmet, links of mail could be seen. What else might lie inside?

Click Here to learn more of this fascinating story of York Archaeology.

ref: http://www.yorkarchaeology.co.uk/artefacts/copphelm1.htm
Copyright © 2003–2006 York Archaeological Trust