A Rajput with his sword

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Originally Posted by Jim McDougall

OK Rick! Its 'Great Game'-o-phobia!! You're seeing our much discussed Afghan armoury stamp again! Actually though, I think that stamp occurred in a different position on the blades, at least on those Afghan military sabres. It seems it was the cartouche with the Mosque with what appear to be cannons on either side if I recall, and was stamped in the ricasso block nearest the blade edge. I dont think this is the stamp, but as you note, we cant really see it, and I dont recall if that stamp was found on any other weapons or blade locations.

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Heres a few more examples of the supposed Mazar I sharif marking from my personal collection, I know & can probably obtain numerous varitions of examples on re stamped English as well as Afghan blades blades up to the 1920s. {Which of course by then were set within a sun marking.






Interestingly although it does indeed show the blue mosque at Mazar al sharif it is also actualy the standard Royal Afghamn coat of arms as seen on all Afghan coins etc. minted at Kabul etc. at that time.

I wonder if ther is any evidence to point to the mazar armoury compared to it bieng just the Royal Afghan issue mark? without a particular armoury attachment?

Anyone any facts to share?

Spiral