by 
The Curious Bag
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A Viking helmet protected its wearer from possible blows to the head received during the intense hand-to-hand combat experienced in battle in the Viking Age (800-1050 A.D.)
History
The Viking helmet was worn by some of the explorers, merchants,and pirates that prowled the Northern Atlantic and the shores of Europe during the Viking Age, which occurred from around 800 to 1050 A.D.
Misconceptions
Most historians agree that the horned Viking helmet is a myth; horns would have been very cumbersome in battle.
Features
The common Viking warrior helmet was made mostly of hard leather that was reinforced with wood or cheap metal.
Significance
Not every Viking warrior owned a helmet. They would have been very difficult and costly to make, enabling only those with considerable wealth to own them.
Fun fact
The only Viking Age helmet in existence was discovered in 1942 in a burial ground in Gjermundbu, Norway. It's made of steel and probably belonged to a chieftain.
Source:
BBC: The Vikings - Weapons and Warfare
Hurstwick: Viking Age Arms and Armor - Viking Helmets
More Information:
The Viking Rune: Norse Vikings and All Things Scandanavian - Viking Weapons
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