armthearmour:

The ritual killing of swords placed in burials is quite a common thing, seen throughout Scandinavia during the viking era, however this piece is quite unique.

As you can see, rather than simply being bent, as is most common, this sword, with lovely silver filigree still visible on the hilt, was twisted into a full spiral shape, the likes of which I’ve never seen before.

This sword was excavated at Vold Farm in Grue, Norway, and likely dates to the 9th century. It is housed at the Viking Ships Museum.