The Coppergate Helmet is one of the most important Anglo-Saxon archaeological finds ever recovered, discovered by a mechanical digger operator in York, England, in May 1982 — worth correcting directly here, since older listing copy filed this piece under 'Medieval,' when it is a genuine 8th century Anglo-Saxon original. The original carries an inscribed Latin prayer naming its owner, 'Oshere,' and is considered the best-preserved of only a handful of Anglo-Saxon helmets known to survive anywhere in the world. Its Northumbrian craftsmanship, rich brass decoration, and distinctive cruciform double-crest make it one of the true masterpieces of Early Medieval English metalwork.
The Coppergate Helmet was struck by a mechanical digger during construction work near the Jorvik Viking Centre in York on 12 May 1982, initially mistaken for a stone before archaeologists recognised its golden banding. Dated to the second half of the 8th century and stylistically Northumbrian, it is made of iron with applied brass containing roughly 85 percent copper, its nasal and crests inscribed with a Latin prayer naming the owner as Oshere. It is now held in the Yorkshire Museum, and remains one of only a handful of surviving Anglo-Saxon helmets known anywhere in the world.
Deepeeka's deluxe reproduction recreates this celebrated find, part of our Anglo-Saxon heritage range.
Use for:
- Anglo-Saxon living history and display
- Museum-style display on a stand
- Anglo-Saxon-themed home decor and collections
- Historical events and Early Medieval fairs
- Film and theatre productions set in Anglo-Saxon England
- Collectors of Anglo-Saxon helmet finds
