SWORD BELT

An incomplete cast copper alloy hanger attachment for a sword belt, of Post Medieval dating (16th to 17th Centuries AD).

The find is sub triangular in plan, and slightly convex in section. The hanger has a slight bow to it, with the centre being higher than the two ends. The hanger consists of a sub triangular shape, with a rounded base (almost oval). A small projection is present at the mid point of the curve. Towards the apex of the triangular, a broken loop is present on the lower edge, with a corresponding small projection on the upper edge. The apex point of the hanger has been broken, but would probably have consisted of a hook attachment.

The remains of two iron rivets are present along the mid line of the hanger. The remains of two iron washers are probably present on the back of the hanger. The back of the hanger is plain.

The hanger measures 37.23mm in length, 20.58mm wide (maximum), 3.37mm wide (minimum) and 3.94mm thick. The loop has an internal diameter of 5.37mm. It weighs 4.1 grams.

It is a mid brown colour, with an even surface patina. It has suffered from a high degree of abrasion with the original surface being lost.

Several similar sword belt hanger attachments have been recorded by the PAS, although none appear to be of the same style and shape as this example. The others have been dated from 16th to 17th Centuries AD, and this example would be consistent with the others.