This axe was made in East Germany during the time of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), a dictatorial regime which existed from 1949 to 1990. The GDR was created at the instigation of the Soviet Union during their occupation following WW2.
The "VEB Werkzeugkombinat Schmalkalden" was founded in 1969 as a state-owned combine. The combine covered the entire tool product range and was the most important tool manufacturer in the GDR. The products were sold under the brand name Smalcalda.
As such this axe would have been made some time between 1969 and 1990, putting it at between 30 and 50 years old.
The axe showed signs of a hard life, with some deformation around the poll, which was also beginning to creep over the top of the eye. It has been lovingly restored to return it to full working order- all mushrooming has been ground away and the black patina restored with cold blue paste. As a result of the restoration it will be just shy of the marked weight of 4lb.
The axe has been tested for hardness to ensure it has not been fire damaged, and then sharpened to very sharp edge, ideal for felling or chopping logs.
It has been newly hung on the highest quality ash handle, hand carved using a draw file , and incorporating a silver birch burr palm swell.