Hey Jim, actually most of what I know about this sword is thanks to you. 
 
I like to imagine it was handed out as a reward or payment to a recruit or for accomplishment during the war periods or perhaps in lieu of payment or bounty,  perhaps a translation could help figure it out.  it does seem genuinely old even if it was used or sold for other purposes. at the price I paid I am happy with it. 
 
I assumed it was a locally made cast alloy guard,  do you think it is of ottoman make? 
thanks
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
	 |