Sword Edward the Black Prince, circa 1340

Sword Edward the Black Prince, circa 1340

The Black Prince was truly his father’s son. Son of King Edward III, one of the great warrior kings from England, the Prince of Wales was perhaps the most romantic figure in all of the Middle Ages. At the tender age of 16, Edward of Woodstock commanded a wing of the army and distinguished himself at the Battle of Crecy, where he routed a numerically superior French force. He was in sole command at the Battle of Poitiers, where he repeated his David and Goliath act. An illness took his life before he could assume the crown, but he left a legacy of heroism that is equalled by few. He was regarded by his English contemporaries as one of the greatest knights of knights of his age and a model of chivalry.

His sword was left hanging over his tomb, and was reported to have been stolen by Oliver Cromwell. A sword identical to the weapon carved on his effigy appeared in the mid-20th century, and was obtained by Ewart Oakeshott. Mr Oakeshott carefully studied the sword and its patina, construction and maker’s mark and was convinced it was the sword of the Black Prince.

This sword was developed during a period when sword makers were feverishly experimenting to create a more capable sword that was effective against developing plate armour. This is a highly effective example of a thrusting sword with some cutting capability. Designed with a diamond cross-section, the blade is stiff enough to deliver a strong two-handed thrust through plate armour. High carbon steel blade and leather-wrapped grip.

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts, the 1075 high carbon steel blade comes factory sharp. Features straight quillons with a downturn and a leather-wrapped grip. The disc pommel has a chamfer that slopes to a smaller disc inlaid with a design featuring a four-heart clover.

Includes a leather scabbard with a metal throat and chape.

• Total length: 112 cm.
• Blade: 87 cm.
• Blade thickness: 1 cm
• Blade width: 4.2 cm
• Handle length: 17 cm
• Balance point: 8 cm from guard.
• Blade material: 1075 carbon steel
• Weight: 1,775 g

Premium quality made by Windlass Steelcrafts®.