Why does the Marine Corps Mameluke sword have a star of David engraved just below the hilt?

Answer 1

My Father has this same sword. I noticed the Star of David also, but did you notice right below the Star of David in tiny lettering it says "China". Does yours have that engraving? How odd that a sword that is engraved " United States Marine Corps" has engraved in tiny lettering "China". I would hate to think the sword was made in China, but that's what it looks like. If so, how sad our country "outsourced" the manufacturing of our own military items.

Answer 2

First, the star is not a Star of David because it is geometrically different. The Star of David does not consist of two triangles combined together, but rather two, separate, interlocking triangles (which, in recent history, and often when displayed in one-color designs, usually does appear to be two triangles combined together).

We cannot absolutely confirm the history of the star; however, we do know that the blade specifications for both the U.S. and British military swords require the six-pointed star with the word "Proved" etched on the blade.

As best we can tell, the specification for the six-pointed star is historical in nature and was likely used to signify that the blade was manufactured using the Damascus steel method. Today, there is no requirement for Damascus steel blades; however, the six-pointed "Proved" star is required in the etch to signify that the blade meets the current military specifications. Even this use has lost its meaning, however, since replica swords intended only for wall-mounting incorrectly bear the symbol. Quoting militarysabers.com