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THBExtremely Rare German Incendiary Crossbow with Steel Bow & Goat’s Foot Lever, circa 1600–1700
Live Auction in Progress ... Currently on Lot Two ways to bid:
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About Auction
LiveFeb 28, 2026
Step into history with Treasure Trove’s largest Militaria auction to date, presented across two unforgettable days. Day One spans the ancient and early modern world, featuring antiquities, arms, armor, and military artifacts from Classical civilizations through the American Revolutionary War, Civil War, and into World War I. Day Two turns to the modern battlefield, showcasing an exceptional selection of World War II and post-war militaria, including uniforms, helmets, daggers, medals, field gear, and historically significant wartime relics. Treasure Trove Auctions info@treasuretroveauctions.com
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- Lot Description
This extremely rare German incendiary crossbow, dating to circa 1600–1700, represents one of the most specialized and elusive forms of late medieval and early modern projectile weaponry. Constructed with a wooden tiller and a powerful steel bow, this configuration reflects post-1500 advancements that favored durability, resistance to moisture, and greatly increased draw strength over earlier composite bows. The crossbow is equipped with a period goat’s foot lever (pied-de-chienne / gaffe), a mechanically efficient spanning device utilizing leverage and double hooks to cock the heavy steel bow.
What distinguishes this example is its incendiary capability. Crossbows specifically designed to fire flaming or incendiary bolts were produced in exceptionally limited numbers, intended for siege warfare, ship-to-ship combat, and the ignition of structures or equipment. While effective, such designs carried inherent risk and added complexity, making them far rarer than conventional military crossbows. The increased mass and reinforced construction necessary to support incendiary use further underscore the specialized nature of this weapon.
The crossbow stands among the most influential weapons in military history. Originating over 2,500 years ago, crossbow technology spread from Asia into Europe, where it reshaped medieval warfare by allowing relatively untrained soldiers to defeat heavily armored opponents. Its battlefield dominance was so feared that in 1139 the Second Lateran Council under Pope Innocent II sought to restrict its use among Christian forces. By the 16th and 17th centuries, steel-bow crossbows represented the technological apex of the form, persisting in specialized roles even as firearms gained prominence.
Large steel-bow incendiary crossbows with intact spanning mechanisms are exceptionally scarce survivals. Examples retaining strong structural integrity and correct period configuration are virtually unknown on the open market. This piece stands as a museum-grade artifact of late medieval warfare and represents a singular opportunity for advanced collectors to acquire one of the rarest functional variants of the European crossbow.
Condition
★ ★ ★ ★
Very Good/Fine – Shows light to moderate wear, may have minor imperfections. A very fine example of the collectible. May also be labelled as Collector Quality.Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.
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Shipping Process & Costs In-house packaging and shipping are available for many items, with shipping quotes based on the size and weight of the package as determined by the carrier or Treasure Trove. All shipments include insurance and signature confirmation when applicable. Domestic shipments are handled through UPS, while international orders are processed via DHL, FedEx, UPS, or whichever is most cost effective for the buyer. Additionally, items will be insured and declared at their full purchase value, including the hammer price plus premium.
Our White Glove Shipping Service – An Unboxing Experience Like No Other At Treasure Trove Auctions, we understand that rare collectibles deserve more than just a standard shipping box—they deserve an experience. That’s why we offer our exclusive White Glove Shipping Service, designed for collectors who appreciate the finer details. With this premium shipping option, your items will arrive in elegant, custom-branded packaging, featuring high-quality materials that reflect the rarity and prestige of your purchase. Depending on the item, we may incorporate special lighting, a hand-tied ribbon, or other bespoke touches to elevate the unboxing moment. This service ensures your prized acquisition is securely packaged, beautifully presented, and delivered with the utmost care—because extraordinary collectibles deserve nothing less.
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Third-Party Shipping Option Buyers, both domestic and international, may arrange shipping through a third-party carrier of their choice. However, Treasure Trove Auctions assumes no responsibility for the acts or omissions of third-party shippers, even if they are recommended by our team. International Buyers International buyers are fully responsible for any duties, taxes, clearance fees, or additional import charges imposed by their country. These fees are not included in the shipping cost and must be paid directly to the appropriate customs authorities upon arrival. As the auction house, we handle the packing, shipping, and handling of your purchased items with care. However, we are not global import exports and such as such, buyers must be aware of and comply with their country's import regulations, restrictions, and legal requirements regarding the items they purchase. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify import laws and restrictions for their country before placing a bid or purchasing an item, cover any customs fees, VAT, or additional import duties required by their government, and ensure the item is legally permissible for import into their country. While our team strives to provide guidance based on past experiences, all final responsibility for customs clearance, import compliance, and associated fees rests solely with the buyer. We are unable to provide refunds or assume liability for items delayed, seized, or rejected by customs authorities due to non-compliance with import regulations. If an item is returned to us due to customs issues, any additional return shipping costs will be the responsibility of the buyer. By placing a bid or completing a purchase, you acknowledge and accept these terms.
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