Superb Elaborately Etched German Executioner’s Sword Or Sword Of Justice Dated 1677

32 and 1/2 inch heavy double edged spatulate point blade. Blade is 2 and 3/8th inch wide. Short wide fullers etched on one side “IHN SOLINGEN ANNO” and “IHN SOLINGEN 1677” on the other. Both sides elaborately etched with scrolling foliage and blossoms. Date side with a gallows (etching worn) and torture wheel on other flat. “King’s head” mark deeply struck at forte. Classic expanded quillion brass crossguard. Wire wrapped wood grip with brass collars. Plain onion shape pommel.

Sword has never been dismounted. Blade condition is very fine with crisp clear etching except as noted. Some minor patches of rust staining consistent with a nearly 350 year old sword. Original leather covered wood scabbard (never seen) is alligatored but generally very good with most original black finish. Sword is 42 inches overall. Weight of sword without scabbard is 4 and 3/4 pounds.

Typically swords of this form are later and carried into German courts as symbols of the majesty of the law. The etching of the gallows and torture wheel marks this magnificent example as a true beheading or executioner’s sword. Never seen with an original scabbard.

Provenance: An old Northen California collection. If you ever wanted one of these distinctive swords this one dated 1677 represents a unique not to be missed opportunity.