Armor Type:  Helmet

Brief Description:  The Spangenhelm was a popular Early Medieval combat helmet. Originating from Persian designs, it featured a conical or rounded iron framework of vertical and horizontal metal strips (the spangen) joined together by rivets, which held three to six steel or bronze plates. Known for its effectiveness and production ease, the Spangenhelm protected warriors from the 6th to 11th centuries.

Its specific design traits and historical significance include:

Construction: The metal framework was designed to deflect top-down impacts. The gaps between the structural strips were filled with curved metal or leather plates, significantly reducing weight.

Facial and Neck Protection: Many models featured a forward nasal guard (nose protector) and hinged cheek pieces to shield the jaw. Some advanced versions—often referred to as "spectacle helmets"—included a forged mask around the eyes and nose.

Chainmail Aventails: To shield the throat and neck, warriors frequently attached a draped mail coif (aventail) to the bottom rim of the helmet.

Historical Legacy: Widely utilized by the Franks, Goths, Anglo-Saxons, and Vikings, it laid the groundwork for the later, solid-forged Norman and nasal helmets.