VICTORIAN COPY RAPIER, 19th century, NOT ORIGINAL Start Price USD 295.00 Current Price USD 295.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price USD 800.00 Reserve Price - Start Time Saturday, August 16, 2008 End Time Tuesday, August 26, 2008 Location SPIRO, OK See more about 'VICTORIAN COPY RAPIER, 19th century, NOT ORIGINAL' Description THIS IS A REVISED VERSION OF WHAT WAS THOUGHT TO BE AN ORIGINAL 17TH CENTURY WEAPON. I have been advised by several experts that the said rapier, though believed for over 45 years to be original, is in reality a beautiful copy made for Victorian manor houses in the 19th century. I thus find it neccessary to  lower any price as I will not sell an item for more than what it should be worth; nor am I willing to compromise my reputation.  It is highly decorated featuring fighting knights, fleur di lies, St. George slaying the dragon and the Greek goddess of war Diane.The weapon is 44 1/2 inches overall with a 37 1/4 inch double edged, flat hexagon blade. It is the older type blade that was used either for cutting or thrusting. The later rapiers were generally narrower and used for thrusting only. About 1/4 inch of the tip was broken off sometime in its  history. There is a little discoloration on the blade due to age but is looking good.The wire wrapped grip is in beautiful condition. The front cross guard is beautifully chiseled while the back side of the cross guard, I believe, has been off for a long-long time. There is an identification tag stamped "F 32" wired to the hilt which is probably some kind of museum ID (?).The makers mark appears to be an "R"  or a "P" in a shield topped by a three pointed crown. This is a beautiful piece that would add much beauty to any collection or by itself. If the experts are wrong somebody will make out like a bandit. Will ship to US, Canada, Europe, Australia. Insurance included in shipping where possible. Shipping in US is UP to about $32.00 including insurance depending as to where it goes.. Place a Bid!