Its speculated that in burials theswords were broken in half to signify the end of particular family or the death of the last legitimate son, but its only speculation.

This is the first Viking burial ship found intact in Mainland Britain. Neat shot I thought you might like it.

Having just finished reading the translations of the Sagas of the Icelanders I learned that combs, swords, arm-bands, rings, etc. were frequently given as gifts to warriors who had helped one king or nobleman in a fight against a competitor. They then were buried with their prize possessions.