Dating C.1640. Concealed within the large felt hats worn by civilians and soldiers, including officers, alike. 7 3/4" width completely hand forged and chisel cut. Six projections, alternating short and long which serve to absorb shock and disperse the impact of a blow through deflection and movement. From the Tower of London where eleven examples were recorded after the English Civil War. Those were sold in the 1960s by the Tower and we purchased three. This example is with stamped Tower inventory number. Condition as used and stored by the Tower with original blackened finish near complete and light surface rusting from storage. The best of those sold by the Tower.