7th-10th century AD. A hand-forged single-edged iron sword with thickened straight back, angled flat-section tang, separate iron guard; a stud to the tang for attachment of organic hilt plates. Cf. Menghin, W., The Merovingian Period. Europe Without Borders, Berlin, 2007, item I.19.4, for type. 644 grams, 81cm (32"). Property of a Birmingham gentleman; previously in a private Dorset, UK collection; formed the 1980s. Fine condition.