[sabertasche]

Hi all, I've noticed several of these cute axes on eBay lately and decided to bid on one. I actually ended up winning this particular tabar. I rec'd it in good order although I have my doubts as to the actual age of this piece. I've ignored the handle as it appears to me to be a recycled croquet mallet handle. My questions are: what is the collective thoughts re the age of this axe. What should a handle look like for this type of weapon. If orginal, what is the significance of the writing. Finally, there is light patina active rust which I really hate, should I gently clean it?

Regards,

Greg