9th-11th century AD. Bronze, just over 7/8” (0.90”) diameter. Rounded face and flat back. As found condition with the cross pin twisted off, disabling it for burial with its warrior owner. The surface with mottled patina and encrustation from burial. Worn in numbers on the surface of the jerkin, these small metal brooches provided a measure of protection against sword cuts and, in fact, were a form of armor. See current Public Television programming for documentation of these in action. As protectors, they also held spiritual significance for the warrior.
