Dagger

This dagger is unique because the hilt seems to be made of bronze, while the blade is made of iron. It is easy to distinguish the materials due to the nature of their corrosion. Bronze corrodes and creates a greenish colour in a process called bronze disease and iron rusts a reddish colour. Due to its small size, the elaborate design, and the use of metals, it is likely that this dagger served ceremonial purposes.

See the Extended Artefact Feature “Bronze and Iron: A Comparison” on the MCA site for more detailed information.