Santa Clara Bill BAH1992-1230

3D Model

The bill is a type of iron polearm rooted in an agricultural implement and woodsman’s tool known as a “billhook.” Bills are distinguished from other polearms by a hooked, crescent-shaped blade and an elongated, forward-looking point, along with a spike opposite the cutting edge. This bill from the wreck of the 1564 galleon Santa Clara is 59.5 cm long. The forward spike is 18.3 cm long and quadrangular in cross-section. The back-spike is 2.5 cm wide and 4.5cm long. The opening of the pole socket is 4.5 cm.