‘Mortuary’ Sword, Britain, mid-17th century
This example is of special interest as it is associated with Oliver Cromwell, being reputedly carried by him during the notorious storming of Drogheda in September 1649. It bears marks from, supposedly, two musket balls and several nicks to the edge of the blade, said to be acquired during the assault on the town. The sword was donated to the Royal United Service Museum by a relative of Cromwell at some point in or before 1848, and acquired by the Royal Armouries in 1963.