The sword itself is about 24 inches long with a 20 inch blade. The blade itself is about 2 inches in width. The scabbard and belt are leather. The sword handle is metal.
This is a curved sword that my father acquired while working in the middle east sometime in the 1940-50's. I was never told the exact country of origin, but based on where he worked, it could have been: Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria. The only thing I was told about this was that it was possibly used for executions.
Dear Thomas,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry. My sincere apologies for the huge delay with the appraisal.
The presented object appears to be an Arabian dagger (Jambiya) with a sheath and belt with the measurements of 24 inches. This dagger or short sword is an interpretation of the iconical jambiya daggers which are a status symbol in the Arabian world. The longer blade indicates that this piece was word by Wahabite Arabs. The blade was made from iron or steel and the handle was made out of wood with decorative brass appliques. This piece was made in the late 19th or first half of the 20th century.
Comparable pieces were recently offered and sold on the international auction market.
This piece is in medium condition and there is no serious damage visible in the images provided.
A fair market estimation would be between 70 to 140 USD.
This estimate is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparable items. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and may vary.
With kind regards,
George