15 Types of Historical Viking Helmets

1. Spangenhelm
2. Gjermundbu helmet
3. Spectacle helmet
4. Vendel helmet
5. Horned helmet
6. Sutton Hoo helmet
7. Coppergate helmet
8. Yarm helmet
9. Nasal helmet
10. Conical helmet
11. Boar-crested helmet
12. Raven helmet
13. Dragon helmet
14. Horsehair helmet
15. Mammen helmet

In the flickering light of a dimly lit forge, where fiery embers dance like lost souls, the blacksmith stands tall, a modern link to a time when legends walked the Earth. Here, amidst the clang of steel and the scent of burning iron, tales of epic conquests and ancient warriors echo through the centuries, and at the heart of this anvil-wielding saga lies the enigmatic allure of Historical Viking Helmets.

Forged by the skilled hands of blacksmiths who harnessed the secrets of metallurgy, these helmets weren’t mere metal head coverings; they were vessels of identity, crafted to encapsulate the indomitable Viking spirit. Every scratch, every dent, and every finely etched rune told stories of daring raids, maritime prowess, and an unwavering reverence for their gods.

Why does this ancient artifact matter to us today? Like a link in a chain that spans centuries, the Viking helmet carries profound lessons and untold wisdom.

In this Blacksmith’s biography of the Historical Viking Helmets, we shall journey together, clad in the armor of curiosity and armed with the sword of inquisitiveness. Our quest shall take us through the mists of time, deep into the core of a fascinating past, where legends were born and heroes immortalized.

So, let us embrace the echoes of Valhalla and immerse ourselves in the saga of these remarkable artifacts. For within their formidable crests and fierce facades lies a powerful message, one that resonates even in the beating heart of our modern world—a reminder that the spirit of the Viking lives on, waiting to inspire, waiting to be discovered.

Are you ready? The flames of the forge beckon, and the journey awaits.

The Types of Viking Helmets

Spangenhelm

The Spangenhelm, a remarkable Viking helmet type, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Norse warriors. Crafted during the Viking Age, this iconic headgear features a unique construction comprising iron or steel strips riveted together to form the frame. The Spangenhelm’s distinct shape boasts a conical dome, providing solid protection while allowing for ease of movement on the battlefield.

A nasal guard adds extra defense for the wearer’s face. The popularity of the Spangenhelm extended beyond the Vikings, finding use among various cultures throughout history. It’s practical design and wide-ranging variations make it a valuable artifact for historians and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the craftsmanship and combat techniques of these legendary Norse warriors.

Gjermundbu Helmet

The Gjermundbu helmet, a remarkable Viking helmet type, holds a unique place in history as one of the earliest surviving examples of its kind. Discovered in a burial mound in Gjermundbu, Norway, this iconic headgear dates back to the 10th century. The Gjermundbu helmet features a conical dome made of iron, with a nasal guard for facial protection. It also includes chainmail, reinforcing its defensive capabilities.

This helmet exemplifies the sophisticated craftsmanship of the Viking Age, showcasing the ingenuity and metalworking prowess of Norse artisans. As a crucial archaeological find, the Gjermundbu helmet offers invaluable insights into Viking culture, warfare, and the evolution of protective headgear. Its legacy endures, providing a tangible connection to the fearless warriors of the past.

Spectacle Helmet

The Spectacle Helmet, a distinct Viking helmet type, derived its name from the unique eyepieces resembling spectacles. Crafted during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical iron or steel dome, providing excellent protection to the wearer’s head. The eyepieces, usually made of iron or brass, were riveted onto the helmet, offering eye protection without compromising visibility.

Spectacle helmets were often adorned with intricate designs and engravings, reflecting the artistic flair of Viking craftsmen. These helmets were popular among Norse warriors and are depicted in various historical artworks. As a testament to Viking ingenuity and the balance between protection and functionality, the Spectacle Helmet remains a captivating artifact that sheds light on the military equipment and combat practices of these legendary seafarers.

Vendel Helmet

The Vendel Helmet, a significant Viking helmet type, traces its origins to the pre-Viking era, specifically the Vendel period (6th to 8th centuries AD) in Sweden. This distinctive headgear exhibits a remarkable design, featuring a rounded dome with a nose guard and cheek pieces that extend toward the back. Made of iron or steel, the Vendel Helmet provided robust protection for Viking warriors.

Its intricately crafted brass or copper fittings, often adorned with intricate patterns and symbols, showcased the skilled metalworking artistry of the time. Although the Vendel Helmet predates the Viking Age, it serves as a precursor to the iconic helmets later adopted by Norse warriors. As an important historical artifact, the Vendel Helmet offers valuable insights into the evolution of Viking military equipment and the craftsmanship of their armorers.

Horned Helmet

The Horned Helmet, an intriguing Viking helmet type, is a subject of both fascination and misconception. Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence of Vikings wearing horned helmets in battle. Such depictions emerged much later in history. Viking helmets, including the Horned Helmet, were typically conical or Spangenhelms made of iron or steel.

The name “Horned Helmet” arises from decorative elements found on ceremonial helmets, where metal protrusions adorned the sides or top, resembling horns. These embellishments symbolized the warriors’ strength and ferocity. The Horned Helmet exemplifies the interplay between practicality and symbolism in Viking culture, and although the image of horned Vikings has captured the imagination, historical accuracy reveals the true nature of their impressive and versatile helmets.

Sutton Hoo Helmet

The Sutton Hoo Helmet, a captivating Viking helmet type, was unearthed from the famous Anglo-Saxon burial site in Sutton Hoo, England. Dating back to the early 7th century, this exquisite headgear showcases a unique blend of Anglo-Saxon and Viking influences. The helmet’s ornate design features a face mask with intricate detailing, including brows, nose, and mustache.

The dome, crafted from iron and covered with tinned bronze plates, displays masterful workmanship. The Sutton Hoo Helmet also boasts an elegant crest, possibly indicating the high status of its wearer. As a symbol of Viking-age artistry and craftsmanship, this helmet stands as an invaluable artifact, offering profound insights into the cultural exchange and military equipment of early medieval Europe.

Coppergate Helmet

The Coppergate Helmet, a remarkable Viking helmet type, was discovered during excavations in the ancient city of York, England, at the site known as Coppergate. Dating back to the 8th century, this helmet stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Viking armorers. Made primarily of iron, its face mask features distinctive eyebrows and a nasal guard, offering enhanced facial protection.

The Coppergate Helmet also boasts an eye-catching spectacle-shaped visor, which could be raised or lowered for improved visibility. Adorned with bronze fittings, this headgear exemplifies the skilled craftsmanship of the Viking Age. As an exceptional archaeological find, the Coppergate Helmet provides valuable insights into the weaponry and defensive gear utilized by these legendary Norse warriors.

Yarm Helmet

The Yarm Helmet, a fascinating Viking helmet type, is a rare and important discovery that sheds light on the armor used by Norse warriors. Unearthed in a burial mound near Yarm, Sweden, this helmet dates back to the 10th century. It features a distinctive conical dome made of iron or steel, providing robust protection.

What sets the Yarm Helmet apart is its intricate facial mask, crafted from gilded bronze, showcasing the artistry of the Viking Age. The mask features engraved patterns and fearsome facial features, resembling a fearsome beast. This headgear is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Viking armorers and offers valuable insights into the aesthetics and symbolism of Viking military equipment.

Nasal Helmet

The Nasal Helmet, a prominent Viking helmet type, is characterized by its distinct nose guard extending from the brow, providing added protection for the face. Originating in the early medieval period, this headgear features a conical dome made of iron or steel, safeguarding the head from blows. The nasal guard, also typically forged from iron, protects the nose from potential strikes during combat.

Nasal helmets were practical and widely used by Viking warriors, offering both functionality and mobility on the battlefield. As a testament to the Viking Age’s metalworking skill, these helmets varied in design and construction across different regions. The Nasal Helmet remains an important artifact, reflecting the tactical ingenuity and protective needs of these fearless Norse warriors.

Conical Helmet

The Conical Helmet, a distinct Viking helmet type, is recognized for its simple yet effective design. Originating during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical-shaped dome made of iron or steel, providing excellent protection for the wearer’s head. The helmet’s conical form allowed for ease of manufacture and versatility in battle.

Though lacking elaborate embellishments, the Conical Helmet’s functionality made it a popular choice among Viking warriors. Its ease of use, coupled with its durability and affordability, made it accessible to a wide range of Norse fighters. As a crucial part of Viking military equipment, the Conical Helmet represents the pragmatic approach and resourcefulness of these legendary seafarers in their quest for strength and security on the battlefield.

Boar-Crested Helmet

The Boar-Crested Helmet, a striking Viking helmet type, stands out with its distinctive and intimidating boar-shaped crest. Crafted during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical dome made of iron or steel, providing solid protection for the wearer. The most notable feature of the Boar-Crested Helmet is the crest at the top, fashioned in the shape of a boar’s head with fearsome tusks.

This crest symbolized the warrior’s ferocity and prowess in battle, instilling fear in their adversaries. The helmet’s craftsmanship showcases the artistic skill of Viking armorers, blending functionality with symbolism. As an awe-inspiring artifact of the Viking era, the Boar-Crested Helmet offers a glimpse into the warrior culture and the significance of animal symbolism in Viking mythology.

Raven Helmet

The Raven Helmet, an intriguing Viking helmet type, derives its name from its captivating and symbolic raven motifs. Crafted during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical iron or steel dome, offering sturdy protection on the battlefield. The Raven Helmet’s distinguishing feature is the intricate raven ornamentation, often crafted from bronze or other metals, attached to the top of the helmet.

The raven, a powerful symbol in Norse mythology, represented intelligence, foresight, and war. Worn by Viking warriors, the Raven Helmet embodied a connection to the divine and a declaration of bravery. Its artistic craftsmanship, combined with its spiritual significance, makes the Raven Helmet a captivating artifact, providing valuable insights into the warrior ethos and belief system of these legendary Norse seafarers.

Dragon Helmet

The Dragon Helmet, an awe-inspiring Viking helmet type, stands as a testament to the fierce and mythical spirit of these Norse warriors. Crafted during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical iron or steel dome, ensuring reliable protection during combat. What sets the Dragon Helmet apart is its magnificent dragon-head adornment, often made from bronze or other metals, positioned on the front of the helmet.

This fierce dragon motif symbolized the warrior’s ferocity and mythical prowess in battle. As a captivating blend of functionality and artistry, the Dragon Helmet showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of Viking armorers. Worn proudly by Viking fighters, it proclaimed their fearsome presence on the battlefield and paid homage to the mythical creatures of Norse folklore.

Horsehair Helmet

The Horsehair Helmet, a striking Viking helmet type, exudes a unique and formidable appearance. Crafted during the Viking Age, this headgear features a conical iron or steel dome for head protection. What distinguishes the Horsehair Helmet is the addition of horsehair attached to the top of the helmet, extending like a mane.

This horsehair adornment served both practical and symbolic purposes, as it enhanced the helmet’s visibility on the battlefield and evoked the image of mythical and powerful equine beings from Norse mythology. The Horsehair Helmet’s design exemplifies the fusion of functionality and symbolism in Viking armament, showcasing the creativity and warrior culture of these legendary Norse fighters. Worn with pride, the Horsehair Helmet embodied the spirit of the Viking Age, honoring the legendary steeds that carried them to victory.

Mammen Helmet

The Mammen Helmet, an iconic Viking helmet type, takes its name from a burial site in Mammen, Denmark, where it was discovered. Originating in the early 10th century, this helmet exhibits a sophisticated and ornate design. It features a conical dome made of iron or steel, with a distinctive face mask extending from the front, covering the nose and cheeks.

The mask is adorned with intricate patterns and stylized animal motifs, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the Viking Age. The Mammen Helmet also includes a mail aventail, adding additional protection to the neck and shoulders. As a testament to Viking artistry and innovation in armament, the Mammen Helmet serves as a remarkable archaeological find, shedding light on the martial culture and metalworking skills of these enigmatic Norse warriors.

Conclusion

Viking helmets were an important part of the Viking warrior’s armor. They were designed not only to protect the head but also to intimidate the enemy. The different types of Viking helmets that have been discovered vary in shape, design, and decoration. From the iconic horned helmet (which is a myth) to the more historically accurate helmets like the Gjermundbu and Sutton Hoo helmets, each type of Viking helmet offers a unique insight into the Viking culture and their military prowess.

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