The safest way to date a rapier or dagger is by the shape of the pommel, this pommelshape was subject to fashion and period bound.
Norman relies with his work mainly on dated paintings and connects pommels from the paintings to specific periods.
A ring guard is not necessary for a 17th century dagger, there are many without it, see for example this dagger from 1650 (from antique trade)
This dagger is more elaborate but of the same type as the one under discussion. (pommel type 63 and a similar guard)
best,
Jasper
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