PAPAL MUNICIPAL GUARD PIONEER’S SWORD Used from 1848-1870

This dagger, used by the Pontifical Swiss Guard in the Papal States between 1848-1870, was constructed with a handle made of a single piece of brass, styled with short branches and finished with rounded edges.  The grip is of solid iron with crosspieces at the head.

There is a double row of teeth on the blade itself and a decorative motif of an eagle’s head.  It is 73.8 cm in length.

The papal coat of arms, marked on the close up of the  sword, is what makes this a significant and rare part of this Collection.

Father Kunst:

The marking is why I bought it.  Unlike the ceremonial Swiss Guard swords, this one was actually meant to be used in battle, which puts it in the same category as the gun that I have.”