Sword of Goujian

The Sword of Goujian, an ancient artifact discovered in 1965 in Hubei, China, continues to captivate historians and scientists alike. This extraordinary weapon, crafted from tin bronze, is celebrated for its incredible sharpness and resistance to tarnish, even after more than 2,000 years.

The sword was unearthed in an ancient tomb in Jiangling County during an archaeological excavation. It was lying in a coffin alongside a human skeleton and was sheathed in a wooden scabbard that fit so perfectly, it created an airtight seal. Despite being submerged in water for millennia, the blade remained untarnished.

What makes this sword even more intriguing is the inscription in ancient script that identifies it as belonging to the "King of Yue." After meticulous analysis, experts concluded that it was the personal sword of Goujian, a renowned King of Yue celebrated for his resilience in the face of adversity. The sword's craftsmanship is exquisite, featuring intricate decorations with blue crystals and turquoise, a grip bound in silk, and a pommel designed with concentric circles.

Scientists have investigated the sword's chemical composition to understand its extraordinary preservation. The blade is primarily made of copper, which provides flexibility, while the edges, containing more tin, are harder and maintain a sharp edge. The presence of sulfur in the metal also helps prevent tarnishing.

Regrettably, the sword suffered damage in 1994 while on loan to Singapore, resulting in a crack. Since this incident, China has been very cautious about exhibiting it abroad. In 2013, the sword was officially listed as a forbidden cultural relic, ensuring its protection and preservation within China.