Saif for comment

[Atlantia]

Hi Brian,

Don't worry mate, these are the beginnings of sword collecting and hopefully are fairly cheap so can be resold for about what you paid for them when you get bored with them.
As has been said, these ARE Spanish pieces from most likely the 1970s. there are MANY available variations all made in the same 'style' with the plated 'brass' looking hilts and coloured engraved blades.
Interestingly I actually did some heat experiments on the pommel of a siimilar sword some years back snd the plating conceals some kind of zinc alloy which melts to nothing
They are quite diverse in style, and I've seen many variations of renesaissance swords plus 'fencing' swords with button tips. What you have are parts of the same family, but presumably representing Spains connections with N.Africa.

You are right, they seem to be 'representations' of Saifs, and are fine for hanging on the wall. But they aren't 'real' swords.

If you are looking for swords that might have seen combat or were made for more than decorative purposes then, as a rule you probobly want to avoid ones that are blunt or have plated blades.
In general the less elaborate and the more sharp the more likely to be 'real'.

That rule becomes less relevant as you spend more money or go back further in time.

And Ariel is right, we all buy a 'lemon' every now and again.

[Iliad]

Hi guys, thanks for the information and kind commiserations. I won't be buying anything for a while, as this worldwide recession has cut my income by rather a lot. We pensioners have a hard life!
Brian

[Chris Evans]

Originally Posted by Iliad

Hi guys, thanks for the information and kind commiserations. I won't be buying anything for a while, as this worldwide recession has cut my income by rather a lot. We pensioners have a hard life!
Brian

If it makes you feel any better, you are not alone. I won't be buying anything for a while. Our $ has gone south big time.

Cheers
Chris