A sword is a bladed weapon with a long cutting or thrusting blade fixed to a hilt, which usually comprises a grip, a guard to protect the hand and a pommel. Antique swords are collected as historical artefacts, examples of fine metalwork and decorative objects, and the field spans everything from medieval and Renaissance arms to military swords of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Major collecting areas include British military swords, such as officers' swords for infantry, cavalry and naval service, which were regulated by official patterns introduced at various dates; small swords and court swords of the eighteenth century, often with chiselled steel, silver or gilt hilts; and Japanese swords, prized for the skill of their forging and polishing. Makers' names, regimental devices, etched or blued and gilt blades and presentation inscriptions all add interest, as do original scabbards. Collectors look for original, unsharpened blades without heavy pitting or modern polishing, sound grips and matching components. The sale, purchase and display of antique swords may be subject to legal restrictions, so buyers should check current regulations. Displayed on a wall or in a case, swords bring a strong historical presence to a hall or library.
