A “unique” Bronze Age artifact has been discovered off southern Norway, stunning archaeologists.

The well-preserved bronze ax, dating to around 1300-1100 B.C., is the first prehistoric metal artifact found in Norwegian waters.

Found at a depth of about 40 feet in the Tromøysund strait near Arendal, this socketed ax is the oldest metal artifact discovered underwater in Norway.

Its origin is uncertain, but it may be linked to a Bronze Age shipwreck. Currently, there are no other artifacts or boat parts found with it, Newsweek has reported.

If the shipwreck theory is correct, it would be a significant discovery for the region.

Written by B.C. Begley