A farrier’s axe dating from the early 19th century. It belonged to the Royal Horse Guards. The spike on the axe was used to put severely injured horses out of their misery as humanely as possible.
In order to account for all animals killed in action, the sharp axe blade was used to chop off the hoof of the deceased horse. Branded numbers in the hooves kept track of horses killed in battle and prevented a soldier from selling his horse to civilians in war zones. Horses were used for both transportation and food.
Ceremonial use today.
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