Hi Cathey,  
 
thats a classic rapier and indeed early 17th C. 
This pommel shape can also be found on pappenheimer type rapiers. 
To me one side of the blade reads  A L E M A N I A. 
The shell like scales look like an old restoration, this is often the case with this type of scales and not problematic. 
A very nice and Original rapier. 
 
Kind regards 
 
Ulfberth
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
	 |