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Day 1: War Through the Ages: Ancient Arms, Roman Antiquities & Medieval Relics

Sat, Feb 28, 2026 11:00AM EST

2026-02-28 11:00:00 2026-02-28 11:00:00 America/New_York Treasure Trove Treasure Trove : Day 1: War Through the Ages: Ancient Arms, Roman Antiquities & Medieval Relics https://live.treasuretroveauctions.com/auctions/treasure-trove/day-1-war-through-the-ages-ancient-arms-roman-antiquities-medieval-relics-21418 Step into history with Treasure Trove’s largest Militaria auction to date, presented across two unforgettable days. Day One spans the ancient and early modern world, featuring antiquities, arms, armor, and military artifacts from Classical civilizations through the American Revolutionary War, Civil War, and into World War I. Day Two turns to the modern battlefield, showcasing an exceptional selection of World War II and post-war militaria, including uniforms, helmets, daggers, medals, field gear, and historically significant wartime relics. Treasure Trove Auctions info@treasuretroveauctions.com

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Lot 160

French Boarding Axe Hand Forged Early 16th Cent.

Estimate: $250 - $600

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Starting Bid

$50

[0 Bids]Bidding History

Bid increments chart

Bid Increments

Price	Bid Increment
$0	$25
$100	$50
$500	$50
$1,000	$100
$2,000	$250
$5,000	$500
$10,000	$1,000
$20,000	$2,500
$50,000	$5,000

This early 16th century French boarding axe is a finely preserved example of a purpose-built naval combat weapon, hand-forged in iron and mounted to its original wooden haft. The axe head displays a distinctive hooked blade paired with a robust striking edge, a configuration designed specifically for shipboard fighting. The iron surface retains a deep, even patina consistent with age, while the wooden handle shows honest wear and shrinkage expected of a tool that has survived over five centuries.

Boarding axes were essential weapons aboard European warships and privateer vessels during the late medieval and early Renaissance periods. Used in close-quarters combat, they served multiple functions: hooking rigging, pulling enemy sailors from decks, cutting lines, breaching obstacles, and delivering devastating blows during boarding actions. French naval forces and privateers of the early 1500s relied heavily on such weapons as naval warfare shifted from projectile engagements to brutal hand-to-hand combat once ships were locked together.

Surviving examples of authentic early boarding axes are increasingly scarce, particularly those retaining their original hafts and unaltered iron heads. This piece stands as a tangible artifact of early naval warfare at the dawn of the Age of Exploration, bridging medieval combat traditions with emerging Renaissance naval tactics. Highly desirable for advanced collectors of maritime militaria, edged weapons, or early European arms, this boarding axe represents a rare and evocative survivor from the decks of 16th century warships.

Provenance: Private European collection.

Condition

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★ ★ ★
Good – Noticeable wear from age and use but remains structurally sound. Considered average condition for most collectibles and memorabilia. Minor imperfections or signs of handling may be present but do not detract from the overall integrity of the item.

Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

Available payment options

If you have not contacted Treasure Trove Auctions 512-221-2540 to arrange payment within 3 days of the time that invoice is sent, we will charge the credit card you used to register for the auction for the amount of your invoice.

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Shipping Process & Costs In-house packaging and shipping are available for many items, with shipping quotes based on the size and weight of the package as determined by the carrier or Treasure Trove. All shipments include insurance and signature confirmation when applicable. Domestic shipments are handled through UPS, while international orders are processed via DHL, FedEx, UPS, or whichever is most cost effective for the buyer. Additionally, items will be insured and declared at their full purchase value, including the hammer price plus premium.

Our White Glove Shipping Service – An Unboxing Experience Like No Other At Treasure Trove Auctions, we understand that rare collectibles deserve more than just a standard shipping box—they deserve an experience. That’s why we offer our exclusive White Glove Shipping Service, designed for collectors who appreciate the finer details. With this premium shipping option, your items will arrive in elegant, custom-branded packaging, featuring high-quality materials that reflect the rarity and prestige of your purchase. Depending on the item, we may incorporate special lighting, a hand-tied ribbon, or other bespoke touches to elevate the unboxing moment. This service ensures your prized acquisition is securely packaged, beautifully presented, and delivered with the utmost care—because extraordinary collectibles deserve nothing less.

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Careful packing by our in-house specialists for added peace of mind. This premium service is available for an additional charge, because your treasures deserve nothing but the best. Choose White Glove Shipping at checkout and make your next collectible delivery one to remember.

Third-Party Shipping Option Buyers, both domestic and international, may arrange shipping through a third-party carrier of their choice. However, Treasure Trove Auctions assumes no responsibility for the acts or omissions of third-party shippers, even if they are recommended by our team. International Buyers International buyers are fully responsible for any duties, taxes, clearance fees, or additional import charges imposed by their country. These fees are not included in the shipping cost and must be paid directly to the appropriate customs authorities upon arrival. As the auction house, we handle the packing, shipping, and handling of your purchased items with care. However, we are not global import exports and such as such, buyers must be aware of and comply with their country's import regulations, restrictions, and legal requirements regarding the items they purchase. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify import laws and restrictions for their country before placing a bid or purchasing an item, cover any customs fees, VAT, or additional import duties required by their government, and ensure the item is legally permissible for import into their country. While our team strives to provide guidance based on past experiences, all final responsibility for customs clearance, import compliance, and associated fees rests solely with the buyer. We are unable to provide refunds or assume liability for items delayed, seized, or rejected by customs authorities due to non-compliance with import regulations. If an item is returned to us due to customs issues, any additional return shipping costs will be the responsibility of the buyer. By placing a bid or completing a purchase, you acknowledge and accept these terms.

Day 1: War Through the Ages: Ancient Arms, Roman Antiquities & Medieval Relics

French Boarding Axe Hand Forged Early 16th Cent.

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