Sharing the shape of the axe used by the executioner in medieval times, this axe would have been used for cutting off smaller appendages. The German Axe of Justice is based off a weapon dating from 16th century Germany. The darkened blade features an angled cutting edge with an integral conical ferrule. Engraved on one side of the hand-forged axe is a crowned hand and the words SGODES HELPE MEI, translated God Help Me, along with the mark of the armorer. The other side of the executioner axe displays a cross bearing INRI and the date 1548. All engravings on this historical axe are gold filled for a regal look. The hardwood shaft of the justice axe is stained black, and the end cap emulates the ferrule with a brown and ornate cap.