Copper-alloy, 5.29 grams, 41.17 mm. 9th-11th century AD. Modelled on an eastern Baltic strap end type from the late Viking period. The split upper end bears a panel of ring-and-dot decoration in vertical rows. Below this is a tongue-shaped panel displaying a beast within a curved inner border: its hindlegs can be seen descending from the triangular upper section of the body on either side. The plain reverse is still firmly attached; there is minor damage to the left extremity of the strap end. Reference: for similar decorative items cf. Griciuviene, E. Seliai: The Selonians, Riga, 2007. Very fine condition. Ex an old American collection.