help id a old sword-thanks

Joined
Oct 11, 2008
Messages
15
we were going thru my grandfathers building this weekend and came upon this sword -can anyone identify and to reserve value-should it be cleaned or is it like old coins-leave it the way i found it?
approx 39 inches long










 
I can't help with the value, but it's a filipino Kampilan. I would not clean it as the patina has value, as in coins or furniture.
 
Ted is exactly right. This is a Kampilan from the Philippine Islands. Actually the South Philpppines, probably Maranao or Mindanao.

These were one of the primary battle weapons of the fierce Moro fighters. It is said that Magellan was killed by a weapon like this. Don't know if that is fact or just an "urban rumor." But he was killed in the Philippines.

The scabbards were usually not well made. The Moro carried the sword in the scabbard, over his back. When he wanted to use the sword, he swung it, and the scabbard, cutting through the rattan that held the twon side if the scabbard together and chopping into his victim. This sword was usually used two handed.

Your sword is probably 75-100 years old. I would place value at about $400.

I would suggest that you do not clean it as the patina is part of its heritage and value. Do stop any red rust with a quality oil. Use mineral oil, not "3 in 1."
 
Back
Top