Left-Hand Parrying Dagger or Short Sword, Circa 1530

This excavated Left-Hand Parrying Dagger or Short Sword, was reportedly found near the Rio Grande river in New Mexico. It may date from exploration of the area by Coronado 1540-1542 (1) . The 5 3/8 inch hilt has a large scent-stopper shaped pommel, a curved cross-guard (quillon) and a ring guard (anneau) with a turned down finial. The 14 inch spear point blade has three grooves (fullers) on each side (2) .

Specifications
Type:Left-Hand Parrying Dagger
Style:Ring / Anneau (Fr)
Country:Spain (?)
Overall Length:19 3/8 inches
Overall Width:6 3/4 inches
Hilt Length:5 3/8 inches
Blade Length:14 inches
Weight:1 lb 5 1/2 oz
Grip:Missing