Circa 1548 The populace of Medieval and Renaissance times, knowing that devices like this existed and were used frequently, were far less likely to commit crimes. Our reproduction is based off of one dating from 16th Century Germany. The hand-forged, darkened blade features an angled 6-1/2″ cutting edge, with an integral conical ferrule. Engraved on one side is a crowned hand and ?SGODES HELPE MEI ?, meaning God Help Me, along with the armorer?s mark, while the other side has a cross bearing ?INRI? and the date 1548. All engravings are gold filled. Though this has the same shape as known executioner?s axes, the size dictates that this was designed for cutting off smaller appendages. The 1-1/2″ wide hardwood shaft has been also been stained a dark black. The end cap emulates the ferrule with both a crown and ornate cap. Made by Windlass Steelcrafts.