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Old 16th October 2006, 10:53 PM   #5
Mark
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To add a bit more information, that lion is the crest of the Ethiopian emperors, who bear the title of "Conquering Lion of Judah," among other titles. The Imperial house traces its roots back to the son of King Solomon of Israel and Queen Makeda of Sheba, who was named Menelik. They are refered to as the "Solomonic Dynasty" for this reason.

I can't tell if the crown on the other side of the blade has a head under it, but the crown is recognizably that of the Ethiopian emperors, as well: http://www.angelfire.com/ny/ethiocrown/Haile.html
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