Italian? Rapier

[Foxbat]

I used to have a pretty good photo setup, but now have to rely more on the phone. I will try later, but the blade has very strong dark patina, so don't know how much better I can do it.

[urbanspaceman]

There doesn't appear to be bold markings present; maybe a shift in the lighting angle will show them up.

[urbanspaceman]

Magnificent piece by the way. Considering that six months ago I had no connection with the sword world I am rapidly becoming desirous of a variety of examples, and a rapier like yours is on the list.

[Foxbat]

Originally Posted by urbanspaceman

Magnificent piece by the way. Considering that six months ago I had no connection with the sword world I am rapidly becoming desirous of a variety of examples, and a rapier like yours is on the list.

Thank you! I did processing similar to what you did, it made the detail somewhat more visible, thanks for the hint!

There appear to be some characters along the way, perhaps things like I, L or Y. And the termination symbol looks interesting.

[Foxbat]

Regarding the oval detail - the arches with "teeth" were very typical of Italian marks from the 15th all the way to the 18th centuries, but I was not able to find this particular combination.

Perhaps an eye with eyelashes around it?