Details

A VERY RARE CELTIC SWORD, in excavated condition, the iron blade with a single 'bellied' edge curving up to a sharp point, the back bordered by a narrow flange on each side, and the edge curving back on itself to form a blunt triangular projection like a front quillon, where it runs into the tang, the latter set at a sharp downward angle and with copper-alloy handle of flattened oval section made in segments comprising a boot-shaped piece over the base of the blade, an eared pommel and a grip of seven rings (four, presumably of organic material, missing), pierced with numerous small circular recesses for inlays, some containing remains of composition, late Iron-Age 28¾in. blade