Interesting Afghani Military Pattern Short Sword

This is a well-made and imposing weapon that measures 31” overall with a military pattern, 26 1/8” straight blade having long double fullers, spear point tip, and a 10” false edge. The steel has a bright overall patina with scattered dark specks along both sides and on the ricasso. The brass hilt has a narrow, triple-branched stirrup type guard with varnished wooden grip panels. The brass itself has a fairly bright yellow-ochre patina with some darker tarnishing in scattered spots, most noticeably on the ferrule and within the guard bow. Additionally, there is a short crack at the base of the single curved quillon on the reverse side. The scabbard has tarnished brass throat and chape fittings while the leather body has a pebbled finish with an added coating of dark protectant. This sword is very similar to Afghan military swords, but does not have the langets or iron hilts found on those weapons. This is a handsome sword, well balanced, and solidly built, that rates fine condition overall.