Original 19th Century Abyssinian Ethiopian Shotel Sword with British Blade & 1780 Maria Theresa Thaler Silver Coin on Pommel

Original Item: One of a Kind. These very unusual swords with very very curved blades come from the "Horn of Africa," which includes Abyssinia, which we now know as Ethiopia. Made famous just before WWII by the Italian Invasion of that Country, and the appeal by it's Emperor Haile Selassie to the League of Nations, which the Western Powers basically ignored. It's Capital is ADDIS ABABA, a city dating back some 2,000 years and more. A Country much in the news but also a land largely still in the middle ages in some respects.

The Shotel Sword, with its very characteristic heavily curved blade, dates back to the reign of AMDA SEYON the 1st, known as "the Pillar of Zion" who was Emperor from 1314 - 1344. The design was intended to "go around" an opponent's shield and then to pull it aside, so he became defenseless and was promptly dispatched.

This example has a lovely horn grip with a small silver band around the middle. The pommel of the hilt has a 1780-dated Maria Theresa thaler silver bullion coin attached. The 32¼” blade appears to be a British example, possibly coming from a 1796 Saber. It shows heavy wear and oxidation. The sword is overall 37”. This example has no scabbard.

A fascinating and very rare African Sword, whose origin dates back maybe 650 years. Fully cleaned and ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 32 1/4”
Blade Style: Shotel
Overall length: 37”