2nd millennium BC. An Ulleskelf Type small socketted axehead of unusual form with slight flare to the blade, stepped transition to the socket with inset lateral elliptical panels, ribbed mouth and single small side loop, slightly convex cutting edge and pronounced casting seam. Cf. Schmidt, P.K. & Burgess, C.B. The Axes of Scotland and Northern England, Prähistorische Bronzefunde, Ab. IX, vol. 7 Munich, 1981 pl.71 no.1012. Recorded with Portable Antiquities Scheme, reference number PAS BERK-79C218; accompanied by a copy of the PAS report. 109 grams, 95mm (3 3/4"). The Chris Rudd collection, Norfolk, UK; formed since the 1970s; collection number AX51; formerly in the Sir Richard Ground (1949-2014) Collection, Derbyshire, UK; previously with Mark Davis, Northamptonshire, UK; found Benson, Berkshire, UK; accompanied by a copy of the invoice from Mark Davis dated 31st October 2011 and Sir Richard's personal illustrated catalogue sheets which describe the piece fully, give details and circumstances of his acquisition, academic references and general notes. Previously classified by Sir Richard Ground as Wilburton Type. Chris Rudd has collected ancient coins and antiquities since the 1940s. As an amateur archaeologist he found many himself at Badbury Rings, Dorset, 1952-53. He also dug at Hod Hill with Professor Sir Ian Richmond and at Wroxeter with Dame Kathleen Kenyon and Dr Graham Webster. Today he is best known as a Celtic coin dealer. His catalogues have been described as ‘an important research source’ by Professor Sir Barry Cunliffe and ‘treasure houses of delight’ by Dr Anne Ross. Coins and artefacts associated with Chris Rudd – as a collector, dealer and valuer – can be seen in The British Museum and other museums. This collection was formed since the 1970s.

Fine condition; blade edge slightly chipped.