Gentle people,
I have learned much on this forum, thanks! I'm working to identify a sword my father has, and I'm new to this.

I have posted pictures at PhotoBucket here:
http://s349.photobucket.com/albums/q388/rmeisner66/Lionhead%20sword/

It's 38.5" long, two hangers on scabbard, no maker marks of any kind that I can see other than the hand-etched "___ Solingen" on the blade's spine (see photos).

I've learned so far that it's probably an imperial Prussian Artillary sword. But I'd like to know more details if possible:
- How do you describe the patterns on the blade? Etches? Engravings? Damascus?
- why would "Solingen" be scratched that way on the spine?
- What is the three-pointed shape on the knuckle guard (under the knight)?
- Do the icons on the knuckle guard mean anything?
- How can I date this sword (I'm clueless on this)
- Most pictures show round langets, these are square. Any significance?
- Is this a fairly common sword?

I'll be thrilled if anyone can comment and offer insights into the details of this sword. As they say, thanks so much in advance.

Ross
Minneaplis, MN

The sword is imperial and is indeed an artillery sword from the turn of the century.The blade looks ecthed,unless it says damask on it.It says Soiligen on the spine because that is probablly the maker or distributor. I can not see the knuckle guard insignia but probably represents something to do with the branch of service. It may be Athena goddess of wisdom and power.I do not see the 3 pointed shape.The nickel scabbard with the brass rings date it.It appears to be a Grosser sword which means,great,large,big (The blade is wider than standard.Not a common sword at all,very unusual,unique.Wipe the blade and scabbard with light coat of oil after your handle it.Finger prints can stain it.

sword is about 1870s by style of hand detailed etch.

Thanks for info and answers, it's wonderful to get some insights into this.
Let me know if anyone wants me to post additional photos/details, happy to share what I can and really appreciate the input.

Ross

I cant make them out -what are the initials on the reverse langet? thanks, Mike

It is a single monogram, an Old English font "M" (unless it's a "W" -- what orientation do you hold the sword to read the langet?)
Ross

I took some more pictures and posted them, if you're interested to see more detail. Specifically, I'd welcome any opinions on:
1. the etched word before "Solingen" on the spine
2. the icons on the knuckleguard (one is a knight, the other...?)
3. the pattern on the blade that appears to be vines in the shape of a letter R -- is that my imagination?

http://s349.photobucket.com/albums/q388/rmeisner66/Lionhead%20sword/

Thanks for any comments.
Ross

Ross,That sword is neater than t*ts.What a sword.The symbol on the triangle on the knuckle guard maybe a knights gorget.(Neck protector). Also appears to be a fasces (An old symbol of Roman authority) also the word fasist comes from the same word.No relation to the sword.We had a fasces on the back of the Roosevelt dime.The name on the spine of the blade could be a distributor. a company or the person who made it.I have never seen a name that was hand applied to the spine of the sword.I would never polish the brass or shine it up.Leave it the way it is.

Nice piece.

I'm with the guys on this one who say leave her alone. At best, some light sudsy to the hilt, but that's it. Even then that's a delicate procedure as you want to avoid any contact with the grip. In short, leave her as is.

Text book pre 1880s sword in every way...

Thanks a ton folks, this is great. If I display this on a wall (does it have to be under glass?) are there any traditions or etiquette for how to display it (up, down, blade exposed, etc.)?
Ross