Did you recently inherit or buy your first sword and are now interested in growing your collection? Whether your sword collecting hobby began by accident or due to your personal interest, once you acquire a few swords there is simply no going back.
Even as a beginner lacking knowledge about swords and their history, you may have come across ads claiming that we sell Nazi sword or we sell Nazi dagger among other collectibles, which may have piqued your interest. However, we recommend reading this brief beginner-friendly sword-collecting guide first. Once you have all the information you need, you will know exactly what you are buying.
Anatomy
Swords comprise two parts, a blade and a hilt.
Blades can be single or double edged and have various parts such as edge, tip, back, flat, fuller, and ricasso.
Hilt refers to the handle part, which comprises a guard, grip, and a leather, wood, or wire pommel.
Sword accessories
Gradually more design features were added to symbolize social class, military ranks, and country of origin. Common accessories include; sword belt, scabbard, and tassel.
Popular historic swords
Today, the most popular swords among collectors are:
Falchions: Short, heavy, single-edged blades from 13th to 15th century Europe.
Longswords: These 2-edged blades measuring around 44 to 55 inches, were made in 15th and 16th century Switzerland and Germany.
Greatswords: Blades of these two-handed, large swords from 16th and 17th century Germany, measure around 50 to 70 inches, while their handles measure around 18 to 21 inches.
Broadswords: These double-edged military swords used from the 17th to 19th centuries, measure around 30 to 45 inches.
Rapiers: Once double-edged, lightweight swords, they were used to represent an officer’s class by the 19th century.
Cutlass: These standard swords were made in different styles.
Cavalry saber: This curved blade was used throughout Napoleonic wars, US Civil War, and both WW1 and WW2.
Infantry officer’s swords: These WW1 era swords made by Wilkinson Swords were numbered, and hence can be traced back to their owners.
Artillery swords: These double-edged, 25-inch blade swords were issued to musicians and sergeants of infantry regiments.
Conclusion
To collect swords, you need in-depth knowledge and patience. Based on your research on your desired sword, you will be able to set a budget. By doing so, you can acquire an awe-inspiring collection within a few years.
19th and 20th century military swords are popular, easily available, authentic, and affordable, making them a great choice for beginner collectors. You can start with them and gradually acquire antiques.