Markings and stemps

Since the earliest times, the blades of swords have been marked with a wide variety of symbols and inscriptions as well as the signs of the smiths.

The Klingenthal manufactory, which took over the legacy of the Solingen workmen, used the same manufacturing processes that were common in the Duchy of Berg. Production was subject to very strict regulations in controlling the quality and number of weapons produced.
Each master had to put his mark on his production and this guarantee the good quality of his work. After a final inspection, the blades received a mark certifying that they had been examined, tested and received by the state commissioners.
In the Klingenthal manufactory, the blades of sabres and swords received a stamp, Fleur de Lys or crown, representing the state manufactory until about 1790. After that, the stamp was defined by the first letter of the inspector’s name, and next to it another stamp with the first letter of the name of the chief inspector.
These stamps were placed on the heel of the blade near the tang. The mounts and scabbards are marked with the stamp of the inspector responsible for that part. In addition to these marks, the blades are usually inscribed with the usual name of the manufactory in force at the time of manufacture.