A rare and remarkable Viking sword is set to be auctioned next month. TimeLine Auctions will host a five-day sale of ancient art, relics, and coins from June 3 to June 7, 2025. Among the highlights is a Viking Ulfberht sword, one of the most coveted weapons from the Middle Ages.
This exceptional artifact is a double-edged Petersen Type X sword, crafted between the 9th and 11th centuries. The sword is distinguished by its silver and latten-inlaid iron blade, measuring 38½ inches (98 cm) in length and weighing 2 pounds 7 ounces (1.1 kg). On one side of the blade, the iconic inscription “ULFBERH+T” can be seen, while the opposite side bears the remains of either the numeral “II IXI” or an intricate interlace pattern. Additionally, the lower and upper guards, as well as the pommel, are adorned with vertical lines of silver and copper, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the period.
The sword’s provenance can be traced back to a private collection in Europe formed in the 1980s, later passing into the Westminster collection in Central London. An academic report by Dr. Raffaele D’Amato will accompany the sale, providing valuable context and insight into this rare piece of Viking history.
A rare and remarkable Viking sword is set to be auctioned next month. TimeLine Auctions will host a five-day sale of ancient art, relics, and coins from June 3 to June 7, 2025. Among the highlights is a Viking Ulfberht sword, one of the most coveted weapons from the Middle Ages.
This exceptional artifact is a double-edged Petersen Type X sword, crafted between the 9th and 11th centuries. The sword is distinguished by its silver and latten-inlaid iron blade, measuring 38½ inches (98 cm) in length and weighing 2 pounds 7 ounces (1.1 kg). On one side of the blade, the iconic inscription “ULFBERH+T” can be seen, while the opposite side bears the remains of either the numeral “II IXI” or an intricate interlace pattern. Additionally, the lower and upper guards, as well as the pommel, are adorned with vertical lines of silver and copper, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the period.
The sword’s provenance can be traced back to a private collection in Europe formed in the 1980s, later passing into the Westminster collection in Central London. An academic report by Dr. Raffaele D’Amato will accompany the sale, providing valuable context and insight into this rare piece of Viking history.
This Ulfberht sword is estimated to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000 ($19,390 – $25,850). It is one of dozens of medieval objects going up for auction – please visit the TimeLine Auctions website for more details.
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