Late Medieval One-handed Sword

The dating of this sword (Wallace Collection inv.# A.462) is shaky, to say the least. Oakeshott is of the opinion that it could be as early as c. 1275, or as late as the 1450’s. As the blade has a couple of maker’s marks that are remarkably like those on some of the swords from Castillon, it could be made sometime between 1420 and 1450. Anyway, it is probably French, and found in a river. It is in pretty good condition and has got fine balance. When I handled it, it felt like a very good thrusting weapon. The flattened diamond cross-section of the blade tells that it was intended to be used against the tougher armour that started to appear by the end of the 13^th century.

Maker's mark

Oakeshott classification:
Blade type: XV
Pommel type: I
Cross-style: 7

Dimensions:
Length: 914 mm (36”)
Blade length: 743 mm (29.25”)
Blade width: 55 mm at the base (2.16”)
Blade thickness at the base: 8.8 mm (0.39”); 5.6 mm (0.22”) 100 mm (4”) from the point
Pommel, height: 48 mm (1.89”), width 58 mm (2.28”), thickness 38 mm (1.5”)
Width of cross: 170 mm (6.7”)
Point of balance: 95 mm (3.74”) from the cross
Weight: 1450 grams (3 lbs 3 oz)

Bibliography:

James G. Mann & A.V.B. Norman: European Arms and Armour in the Wallace Collection, p. 242-3 (vol. 1), p. 114 (vol. 2)
Ewart Oakeshott: Records of the Medieval Sword, p. 128