**Originally Listed At $500**

Central Europe, Spain or Italy, ca. 16th to 17th century CE. A long and narrow iron rapier blade with a small tang and a fuller groove running partway down the blade. The fuller has an incised series of letters that are indecipherable to read due to the patina. The blade is very thin with a double edge designed for cutting and thrusting. The rapier was a popular sidearm for dueling and protection and the more ornate became status symbols. Most masters claimed the appropriate size for a rapier was the length from one's navel to the ground, making this blade suitable for someone very tall in stature. Size: 45.9" L (116.6 cm)

Provenance: ex-Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA acquired before 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#158604

Restored tip and a fragile surface with abrasions, nicks, and chips. Heavy patina over engraved inscription which is difficult to discern.