A truly fascinating example Brian!
As noted, these kinds of swords are intended not for combat, but are most definitely for creating a profound visual impression. While naturally the idea of ceremonial use seems likely, I believe with these I would suggest probably a bearing or processional type sword.
There are khanda hilted swords with these disc type features known from Almora regions in Uttar Pradesh in Northern India, which date from 16th century onward (Pant, "Indian Arms & Armour" plate CXIV), but the disc seems invariably at the blade root near the hilt. Elgood also shows similar types of sword, typically just as Pant, noting these are probably Pahari.
The Pahari are essentially hill people in these northern regions into Nepal.
Elgood, in his "Hindu Arms and Ritual" (p.120-21) notes that "...swords incorporating the chakra (disc) are considered symbols of the chakravartin, or universal king". He suggests the term 'ardhachakrakrpana' is used to describe these forms of swords incorporating the chakra. It is important to note that the huge 'Zulfikar' swords with serrated edges and enlarged bifurcated tip are also from the Uttar Pradesh regions.
Indications are that these elaborately designed swords were kingly weapons to proclaim the right to rule, and these regions were key as locations central to the rule of much of India historically. This example seems to have some reasonably good age and might well be 18th century, perhaps being used in courtly functions as a bearing sword as mentioned.
Well done Brian,
Jim
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