9th-11th century AD. An iron horse bit comprising two square-section bars joined at the centre with loops, at each outer end two rings inlaid with silver wire and a separate transverse bar with similar decoration and strap-loop below. Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, plate 22, for type.239 grams,19cm (7 1/2"). From the family collection of a UK gentleman, by descent in the early 1970s; previously acquired before 1960.[No Reserve]