The colichemarde smallsword is one of the most distinctive duelling weapons of the late 17th and 18th centuries. It combines a wide forte for parrying with a slender foible for swift, accurate thrusts. This unique geometry offered a balance of elegance and functionality, making it a favoured sidearm in both Europe and North America during its peak.
Specifications
Feature
Detail
Blade Type
Broad forte tapering abruptly to a narrow foible
Blade Length
Approx. 0.8 m (31 in); total length up to 1 m
Weight
Around 460–480 g; heavier than average smallswords
Cross-Section
Triangular or hollow-ground
Materials
Forged steel blade; silver or gilt hilt fittings
Balance Point
Optimised for parrying and thrust efficiency
History and Evolution
Origin: Emerged around 1680 and remained in vogue until the late 18th century.
Name: Believed to be linked to Graf von Königsmark, though the sword’s use predates him.
Popularity: Worn by European officers, aristocrats, and later North American military leaders.
Ceremonial Role: Used in high-profile occasions such as George Washington’s inauguration in 1789.
Combat Use: Common in court duels and formalised fencing practice, particularly in France and Britain.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
Strong Parrying Capability: The broad forte was excellent for deflecting attacks.
Precision Thrusting: The thin foible enabled swift, accurate point work.
Superior Handling: Despite the heavier weight, balance and centre of percussion were well-placed.
Design Innovation: Blended structural resilience with refined fencing ergonomics.
Disadvantages
Limited Cutting Utility: Like most smallswords, it lacked effective cutting capacity.
Heavier Than Other Smallswords: Not ideal for fencers who preferred ultra-light weapons.
Steel Quality Variance: Some examples were let down by inferior metallurgy or hidden flaws.
Heavier and longer, suited to cut-and-thrust. The colichemarde was lighter and more agile.
Spadroon
Designed for cut and thrust, but often lacked the finesse of smallswords. The colichemarde outperformed it in precision and duelling.
Legacy
Influenced the development of the duelling épée and modern fencing styles.
Remained in ceremonial use even after pistols replaced swords in duelling.
Associated with military dress and aristocratic formality throughout the 18th century.
Studied today for its unique blend of aesthetics, engineering, and martial practicality.
Where to See Examples
UK Museums: The Guards Museum, London holds a notable example awarded to the Duke of Marlborough.
Continental Displays: Variants can be seen in French and German military museums.
North American Collections: Historical societies and private arms collections occasionally display pieces tied to early American military history.
Collector’s Guide
Features Collectors Look For
Wide forte and narrow foible in good proportion
Silver or gold-inlaid hilts with regimental or noble markings
English or French hallmarks indicating origin and date
Signs of duel or field use (guard dents, blade nicks) can add historic interest
Common Auction Price Range
Example Type
Sale Price (Estimate)
18th-century British with pierced silver hilt
USD 700–1,200
London-marked 1753 silver-hilted sword
USD 1,300–1,900
French silver-hilted colichemarde (1770s)
GBP 1,200–1,500
Ceremonial example with royal markings
USD 2,000+
The Sevenswords Takeaway
The English colichemarde smallsword stands out for its engineering and martial precision. It bridged the gap between battlefield utility and aristocratic style, holding a unique place in the evolution of European swordsmanship. Today, it remains a prized piece for collectors, historians, and fencing scholars alike.
