An antique Asian style sword Indeterminate area of origin, with 19th Century and later elements
After cleaning up the rust the stamped initials that were revealed are KLM89. At first I thought this was an ornamental type, but after reviewing your educative material it indicates that this may have been used in combat at some point. Not really sure though. This is an inheritance from my uncle whom we never were really close, and their were no documents since I was chosen accordingly because of my interest in militia since his assets were divided up between my small family.
Blade: 23 3/8 inch Sheath: 28 1/2 inch Blade Handle From Blade To Ear Points: 9 1/4 inch
Inherited
Yes
Hi Lane,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This sword is a bit of a puzzle. There are several elements of this sword that point to an Asian origin: the shape and curve of the blade are similar to the LiuyeDao or "Willow Leaf Saber" from the Ming Dynasty in China while the carved scabbard and handle/hilt are more Southeast Asian in style. Conversely, the initials KLM89 suggest a late 19th Century or later Western (European) origin and that form of blade is found in other parts of Europe as well.
I've searched several edged weapon websites and databases and have not found any other sword that presents these same features. It's highly possible this sword was created in Asia using a Western blade and sold as a souvenir to Western soldiers before they returned back to the US or other European countries.
The fact that this sword doesn't fall easily into any known category will keep its value on the conservative side - less than $500; I think it likely has greater sentimental value to you as a keepsake from your uncle, despite the fact that you and he weren't close.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Asian style sword
Indeterminate area of origin, with 19th Century and later elements
blade stamped KLM89; with dragon's-head carved handle; the scabbard robustly carved
Overall length: 32-5/8 inches
CONDITION: This appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 300-500*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
Sword without sheath is 32 3/4 inches
Can you guys help me sell it?
Hi Lane,
Mearto has partnered with Catawiki, a global online auction platform that conducts auctions regularly; for more information on that, see https://www.mearto.com/catawiki. If you decide you want to sell through Catawiki, use this link to fast-track the process: https://prf.hn/click/camref:1101lHtv3/pubref:delia
If you still have questions, let me know!
Delia
Overall length of the sword with sheath is 38 inches