Anglo-Saxon silver scabbard mount

Earlier this year, Dr Stephen Hammond discovered an Anglo-Saxon silver pyramid-shaped sword scabbard mount in Heacham, Norfolk. 

He recorded the find with the Norfolk Identification and Recording Service, (who host the Portable Antiquities Scheme’s Finds Liaison Officer) who reported the mount to the coroner as potential Treasure.   

Early Medieval sword scabbard mount are fascinating and wonderfully designed objects.  There are several gold and garnet examples in the Staffordshire Hoard  and the Sutton Hoo burial, and it is thought that scabbard mounts like may have served a practical purpose in helping to secure the sword in its scabbard by means of a straps running through the loop on the back.  The mount found by Dr Hammond features intricate geometric designs in niello, a shiny black metallic compound used for decorative effect. 

In an act of great generosity, Dr Hammond and the owner of the land both agreed to forego any reward in order that the sword scabbard mount could be acquired by Norwich Castle Museum at no expense.  In the course of doing so, Dr Hammond was reminded of the first time he had made a donation to Norwich Castle Museum, in 1952!  Amazingly, he still had the certificate issued by the Town Clerk acknowledging his deed of 60 years ago.   

Dr Hammond has had more than a handful of Treasure finds over the years, but this historic document shows just how long he has been pursuing his hobby.  Thank you again Dr Hammond, to you and the landowner!