Because of its high Swedish iron was much sought after. It was particularly favoured in the production of swords, often manufactured in the Frankish kingdoms further south. The swords were then taken by the Vikings of their river expeditions - to such an extent that in In the second half of the 9th century, its sale to non-Franks was punishable by death. These swords were all about 94cms in length.
Left: State Historical Museum, Moscow, Russia
Right: Smolensk Historical Museum, Russia