Benty Grange Helmet

An Anglo-Saxon ceremonial helmet found in 1848 at a burial site in Benty Grange. Unlike the Sutton Hoo helmet, which has similarities to Swedish helmets, the Benty Grange example was undoubtedly of native workmanship. It is an elaborate object combining the pagan boar symbol with Christian crosses on the nail heads.

During the 19th century most of the prehistoric barrows in Derbyshire were excavated, and secondary burials of Anglo-Saxon date were found in a number of them. In 1848 the most spectacular of these was opened at Benty Grange, and an Anglo-Saxon ceremonial helmet was found. Unlike the Sutton Hoo helmet, which has similarities to Swedish helmets, the Benty Grange example is undoubtedly of native workmanship. The helmet is an elaborate object combining the pagan boar symbol with Christian crosses on the nail heads.