Hi Harry,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The broad, leaf-shaped blade and short handle are characteristic of Bronze Age European swords, often dating from around 1600 to 600 BCE. These swords were typically cast in one piece using bronze and were not as long or sharp as later iron or steel swords. The greenish patina suggests oxidation consistent with bronze artifacts. It also has a shape consistent with early Iron Age Celtic swords (e.g., Hallstatt culture, 800–500 BCE).

Without being able to examine this sword in person - or using scientific methods to confirm the content and quality of the bronze and microanalysis to date it - but assuming this is of the period, it has a fair-market value of $800-1,000, a value based on what similar swords have sold for at auction recently.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique bronze age short sword
European or Celtic, 1600-550 BCE
Forged from a single piece of bronze, the stylized hilt with bird finial and flaring cross-guard. Lacking sheath or scabbard.
Blade approximately 12 inches; overall length 16-18 inches
CONDITION: This has verdigris patina and encrustations allover.
PROVENANCE: Acquired in an online auction
$800-1,000*
*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