In Sean Flynt's Spotlight article on Oakeshott's Type XVIII typology, he makes this statement:

Quote:

The basic type was in use as long ago as the second century B.C. and as recently as the 18th century

Would anyone care to expand on this statement? Are we talking about Roman/Greek blades in the earliest category? Also, what would be an example of an 18th century sword of this type? Thanks. :)

Oakeshott has some info on those early XVIII's. They're pointed versions of Roman spathas. And I guess there's plenty of 17th and 18th century sword blades like these (in general outlines).

Link to Albion's Alaris pointy spatha:

http://www.albion-swords.com/swords/albion/ne...spatha.htm

Talking about la Tène swords, rather..

I have a Celtic sword of the LaTene II period (Albion 1st Gen), and it's displayed right next to a Type XVIIIa (A&A Schloss Erbach). While the profile taper is obviously different, the two have some notable features in common: Their ability in thrusting (while secondary) is very good considering the sort of fencing tactics of their heydays; and they both feature a spine that runs the length of their blades which enhances their exceptional cutting power. Also, both blades are rather wide at their shoulders and have a diamond cross-section.

To compare these two swords in particular in the context of G. Scott's question may be apples & oranges. Sean would know best since the statement in question is from his article, but I think -- generally speaking -- what we have here are two blade types with remarkable similarities while being two millenia apart. :) -Ted

My guess would be that Oakeshott probably was talking more about the La Tene I or early La Tene II blades. Most of these blades feature a strong mid rib like some of the Type XVIII blades. The two drawings on the link below show two different sides of the spectrum as far as the profile tapers go for the period. So with most of the blades falling in between the two, some are very close in profile taper to the later blades.

http://www.ironagearmoury.com/la_tene_i.htm

Shane