Metallographic investigation of a Toledo-steel sword

The present article examines the metallographic structure of a parade sword which was manufactured in the Royal Manufactory of Toledo, Spain, around the year 1851. The sword formed part of a cavalry officer‘s uniform. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) were employed for an examination. It was possible to demonstrate the outstanding workmanship in the manufacture of the sword, which consisted of two steels of different carbon contents which were welded together by hot forging. This also explains the excellent mechanical properties of the sword and the top-class historical reputation of weapons for cut and thrust from the Royal Manufactory of Toledo.