Rating and value of court swords

If you own a court sword or saber, and would like to know its value, and if you don't know, the period and model of the weapon, our state-approved experts and auctioneers will offer you their appraisal services. Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your weapon, and provide you with a precise estimate of its value on today's market. Then, if you wish to sell your item, we'll guide you towards the best possible means of obtaining the best possible price.  

Rating and value of court swords and sabres  

Court swords and sabers are among the most sought-after military collectibles on the auction market. However, price differences can be considerable, depending on model, engraving, state of preservation, who owned it, and other criteria. Nowadays, prices for these weapons can rise considerably under the auctioneer's hammer. Buyers from all over the world are interested in the sale of certain rare pieces. The price at which they sell on the art market ranges from €60 to €400,000, at the moment, a substantial gap but one that says a lot about the value that can be attributed to court swords. In 2014, an exceptional straight-bladed court sword in gold and diamonds dating from 1780 sold for €400,000. It was originally estimated at between €400,000 and €600,000. Here's a look back at past auctions and more details on these weapons.

Order of value from a simple weapon to the most prestigious

Court swords, weapons of power   

Court swords are highly prized items on the auction market. They were made to be worn by civilians, in keeping with the purpose of weapons of honor and decoration.

Depending on the weapon, it may be called a court sword or a court saber. The most common term is épée de cour (court sword), which covers all sufficiently long bladed weapons. The saber is included here (a pointed, single-edged white weapon with a more or less curved blade). There is a distinction in practice, but the term "court sword" encompasses all bladed weapons carried by the nobility.

Technique and characteristics of court swords   

Court swords are mainly characterized by their long, stabbing blade. The blade is very similar to rapier swords, but the guard is slightly different. The transition came with Louis XVIII, who wanted to use rapiers at court in the same way as Italy. He modernized them, removing the basket and simply adding a thin metal branch to hold the hand. The blade is triangular, enabling combat with many different weapons, including sabres.

The frame is simpler than that of the rapier, consisting of a shell, a guard limb with quillon, the spindle and the pommel. The stylistic details and decorative work on course swords are more subtle and meticulous than on rapier swords.

Historical background and the success of court swords   

Court swords were made primarily for social purposes, but they were also used in fencing and armouries. They were very popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. At Versailles, for example, men could not enter without carrying a sword. It was not only a weapon, but also a luxury accessory that integrated into men's outfits and allowed them to show their social rank, wealth and power to the court.

They're popular at auction, and although they're not the most expensive antique guns, prices can rise very quickly.

Reasons to auction a court sword  

If you own a court sword and don't know how to sell it, auctions are a solution. Indeed, collectors use this medium to find models that correspond to a particular battle or that belonged to their ancestors. Prices can reach unprecedented heights. 

Court swords obviously have a financial value on the art market, but they also have a historical value. These weapons bear witness to the various conflicts of their time, and to the power wielded by those who owned them. They also show how weapon design has evolved scientifically. 

Knowing the value of a court sword   

If you happen to own a court sword from any period and would like to know its value, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using the form on our website. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly to provide you with an estimate of the market value of your piece, as well as all the relevant information about it. If you wish to sell your property, our specialists will also be on hand to help you find alternatives for selling it at the best possible price, taking into account market trends.