18th century Belt Axe with brass tacks, possibly Native American, ca. 1700 – 1780

This is another rare piece being offered, it is an 18^th century  belt axe (Round Pole Hatchet), circa 1700 – 1780.  It is hand-forged and unmarked with the wood pole measuring 15 1/2” and has a 1 1/8” diameter. The blade measures 3 1/2” x 4 1/8”. Each side of the pole has four decorative brass tacks – a common practice in the 18^th century.

Introduced by European traders, brass tacks became a popular trade good and were used by Native Americans to embellish weapons and other items. The ornate patterns created with the tacks were a powerful way to express an individual's status, personal pride, and tribal identity.

In the 18th century, soldiers often preferred smaller axes like hatchets or tomahawks because they were versatile tools, useful as both a weapon and for essential utilitarian tasks in the wilderness. Their compact size also made them easier to carry on expeditions, less cumbersome on horseback, and provided a practical alternative to swords. The longer wooden handles allowed for a little distance between him and his combatant.

The original wooden haft has a nicely aged surface with some handling marks and wear stains – the end has a small piece of leather remaining under the brass tack. The blade has a mostly smooth, untouched surface with some minor nicks.

You will look for a long time to find a better balanced size axe with the original period handle. With many of these axes, the iron head has some movement, this one is very tight. There are examples of this axe in “Swords & Blades of the American Revolution” by George Neumann (see pictures).

There is also one in “Revolutionary War History” (see pictures). This is a very nice example of an authentic Colonial/Revolutionary War Period Belt-Axe. Overall, it is a very solid piece. This axe is definitely museum quality or for any serious Revolutionary or French & Indian War collector.

Revolutionary War relics have always been hard to find. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price.