CIRCA 16TH CENTURY SWISS LUCERNE HAMMER ON SHORTENED

Circa 16th century Swiss style Lucerne hammer. As a combination of a bec de corbin and a war hammer, the Lucerne hammer's square pusher spike was very effective at spearing while the 4 pronged hammer was equally effective at defeating the defensive capabilities of armor. The Lucerne hammer was especially popular in Switzerland and saw service in the Swiss armies during the 15th through the 17th centuries. The top of the hammer features a square pusher spike blade which was inserted transversely and measures approximately 15 - 3/4". A split hammer that features four pronged spikes which measure approximately 2" each highlight the front. Behind the split hammer is a curved falcon's beak spike that measures approximately 5" and is flanked by one a 2" spike on either side. Two iron straps with five iron rivets are riveted into the original haft. This example has a shortened haft that measures approximately 16 - 34" and appears to have been painted black at some point. CONDITION: The iron components exhibit an attractive dark gray patina with scattered pitting throughout. The top iron rivet is damaged, but the hammer remains secured to the haft with no loose shaking. There are various scratches and chips in the haft, but they do not take away from the appearance of this polearm. This is a nice example of a Swiss Lucerne hammer that is ready to be displayed with other polearms. PROVENANCE: Formerly in the John K. Lattimer Collection. Overall good. JLD Blade Length: 16" Overall Length: 33 - 1/4" "