Well noted, this appears to be a Dahomean 'hwi' from that kingdom (now Benin) used in ceremonial events and as a kind of bearing sword or regalia. Ian has detailed most of this spot on, and there are great references in Christopher Spring "African Arms and Armour". In this material the Palau-Marti article on Dahomean arms is cited.
I have always thought the cross in many of these seemed reminiscent of the type cross said to be of Portuguese influence on some African swords (I believe from Congo) from that influence on this part of African coast.
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