amazing British military relics ! Axe handle still intact from being underwater is a prime example of preservation , if possible make every attempt to save the handle.
Found with axehead mounted upside down is interesting and intriguing imo.
Three bayonets is Banner worthy , looked up the British Sixth Regt. of Foot , found out ,
" On the outbreak of the American War of Independence detachments from the 6th arrived in New York in 1776 and saw action, but were of insufficient strength and were sent home."
Fantastic early finds. Its amazing that the axe handle is so well preserved. I am no expert, but would absolutely save that handle as it is. The bayonets are spectacular as well. Were these all underwater recoveries?
I know you are no rookie at underwater arties,and likely know much more than I,but wood deteriorates quickly out of water.I still cant get over those finds,any one of them would make my day!!!
Banner relics, sir! I believe the broad arrow is a British Naval symbol. I wanna hear more story & see more photos, if you're so inclined. Save the handle if you can.
I'd not be in the least offended to see a chop down memory lane photo montage of previous axes, either. Well dived.
Holy Moly there CD, all I can say is BANNER, this is beyond comprehenson. Are you sure you are not diving at the Royal Naval Museum in Greenwich.
If you need some help this summer recovering all those artifacts you just let me know.
Dave
the broad arrow was the acceptance mark for the british admiralty. they would test a few of every batch of material they got and if it passed it got the broad arrow mark. Wilkinson invented the test for swords cutlasses and dirks. p.s. if it didn't pass the manufacturer did not get paid.
I don't know why, but I cannot see CD's photos on this or another post of his. The broad arrow mark was not only used by the Admiralty. All British government issue military items have it from muskets to pistols, cannons to bayonets, belts to daggers.