Iron sword with organic remains of scabbard

Sword: in extremely bad condition and dropping to pieces. Length now 35 inches, but tip broken off. Originally length given as [37 in. struck out]. Traces of wooden scabbard with fibrous remains underneath, again probably sheepskin. The tang on one surface shows signs of vertical ribbing perhaps to give a better grip. The impression of the upper and lower cross-pieces of guard is very clear; the lower width 1.3cm, the upper guard or bar somewhat less. As elsewhere there is the distinct suggestion that the cross-pieces were put on over leather which has been forced into ridges at either side. Possibly this gave it a better, tighter grip. The top of this tang makes a distinct knob where it has been hammered over.X-ray no. 5: The blade was pattern welded: apparently 4 composite rods in double assembly, AND ALTERNATE pattern of straight and twisted sections.X-ray could not be located in 2006-7. – D.H.