Developed beginning in the 16th century, the rapier evolved as a distinctly civilian sidearm that was later adapted to military and battlefield use. Most effective in quick thrusting against unarmoured opponents, it was an ideal everyday carry, self defense weapon for civilians, as well as becoming more and more common on the battlefield as armour began to wane. This example appears unmarked but shows fairly typical French style, with the guard having nearly straight quillions that taper wider at the ends, large loop guard, side loop, and triple counterguards, all over round bar. The pommel is spherical and plain with a visibly peened tang, and the grip is leather wrapped. The flattened diamond section blade has a central fuller at the forte and measures 42 3/4 inches long.

Fine, the metal showing mostly a bright grey patina overall with some scattered speckling of light pitting. The grip is also fine with some mild wear.