Valyrian steel holds a legendary status in the world of Game of Thrones, forged in the lost Freehold of Valyria using spells, dragonfire, and unparalleled craftsmanship. With the fall of Valyria, the secrets of forging it were lost, making every existing blade a rare and highly prized heirloom. These weapons are not only deadly but also capable of killing White Walkers, setting them apart from common steel. Below is a complete guide to every known Valyrian steel weapon in the show and the lore behind them.
Longclaw
Current owner: Jon Snow
Originally House Mormont’s ancestral sword, Longclaw was given to Jon Snow by Lord Commander Jeor Mormont after he saved his life. The pommel was changed from a bear to a white direwolf, representing Jon’s Stark lineage. Longclaw becomes one of the most iconic weapons in the series, especially after Jon uses it against White Walkers.
Oathkeeper
Current owner: Brienne of Tarth
Originally Ice, the greatsword of House Stark, was melted down by Tywin Lannister and reforged into two separate swords. One became Oathkeeper, which Jaime Lannister gave to Brienne. Fittingly named, the sword symbolises her vow to protect the Stark daughters.
Widow’s Wail
Current owner: Jaime Lannister
The second sword forged from Ice, Widow’s Wail was originally gifted to King Joffrey at his wedding. After Joffrey’s death, it eventually came into Jaime’s possession. The blade is intricately designed and richly decorated, suiting the Lannister aesthetic.
Ice
Original owner: House Stark
The ancestral greatsword of House Stark, Ice was a massive two-handed blade made entirely of Valyrian steel. Eddard Stark used it for executions in the North. It was melted down in King’s Landing into Oathkeeper and Widow’s Wail, symbolically dismantling the Stark legacy before its eventual resurgence.
Heartsbane
Current owner: Samwell Tarly
The ancestral sword of House Tarly, Heartsbane is a massive greatsword typically passed from father to son. Sam stole it from his father, Randyll Tarly, when he returned to Horn Hill. Despite lacking martial skill, Sam’s act marked a significant break from his past and helped preserve another Valyrian weapon in the fight against the dead.
Dagger (Catspaw Dagger)
Current owner: Arya Stark
Once used in the assassination attempt on Bran Stark, the Valyrian steel dagger passed through various hands before being claimed by Arya. She later used it to kill the Night King, turning the once-forgotten blade into one of the most consequential weapons in the story.
Unknown Blades and Historical Mentions
Several Valyrian steel blades are mentioned in the books but not confirmed or shown in the TV series:
- Blackfyre and Dark Sister: Legendary Targaryen swords, both lost to history by the time of Game of Thrones.
- Lady Forlorn (House Corbray): Wielded by Ser Lyn Corbray in the books but not featured in the show.
- Nightfall (House Harlaw) and Red Rain (House Drumm): Valyrian blades in the Iron Islands, again not adapted for television.
Why Valyrian Steel Matters
Valyrian steel plays a practical role in the battle against the White Walkers, as it is one of the few substances that can kill them. This magical property, combined with its scarcity, makes these weapons essential assets in the series’ most critical moments. Characters who wield Valyrian steel often carry a symbolic burden or legacy, tying them to the old world and the looming threat of death from the North.
