Tooth Sword

Aside from their practical application, tooth swords weapons were also regarded as works of art. Every carving displays a remarkable level of craftsmanship and meticulousness of the native people. Shell or bone inlays were commonly used for decoration on clubs, enhancing their aesthetics. The Polynesian culture's resourcefulness and ingenuity are evident in their use of natural materials. History and authenticity are ensured with each piece handcrafted from high-quality materials. 

Due to their durability and sharpness, shark teeth were chosen for tooth swords. Shark or dinosaur teeth (or teeth from other apex predators) are usually fitted into a wooden frame to form tooth swords. It is common for indigenous people to use tooth swords as weapons of war. Throughout Micronesia, shark teeth were used as swords and weapons. Shark tooth swords were a common hand-to-hand weapon in the Gilbert Islands (now Kiribati) during the 19th century. Indigenous Kiribatian people made this weapon, known as te unun, on the Gilbert Islands. With the help of binding techniques, razor-sharp shark teeth were attached to curved wooden blades to make these swords. For ceremonial dueling and combat, swords were often used with projectiles and spears.

Shark tooth blades found on Tamana Island in the Gilbert Islands are flattened, pointed pieces of wood with shark teeth carved into each edge. Coconut fiber was used to tie the teeth in holes drilled in the wood, while faded red palm was used to bind the handle.  Antique shark tooth knives connected to a handle with plant-based thread and glue were discovered in Indonesia. 

Tooth Sword for Auction

At online auction website Bidsquare, we offer a wide selection of Polynesian tooth sword clubs and wooden sculptures with a long and rich cultural history. Handcrafted from Koa wood, popular for its durability and striking grain patterns, these traditional weapons feature beautifully detailed carvings. The clubs in this category were designed and crafted to be efficient in combat and serve specific purposes. Others, like the tooth sword, use shark teeth, rocks, shells, and bone as cutting tools as an alternative to metal. 

Our collection of Hawaiian weapons offers an insight into the artisanship and weaponry of Polynesian traditions, suitable for both collectors and history enthusiasts. Our collection features Hawaiian weapons, including swords, machetes, dancing knives, Koa lei o mano, war clubs, double axes, and shark-tooth war clubs, among others. A wealth of cultural heritages is preserved in each piece, passed down from generation to generation. Make your trove of Polynesian history by exploring our online auction database of tooth swords.