An executioner's sword is a sword designed specifically for decapitation of condemned criminals (as opposed to combat). These swords were intended for two-handed use, but were lacking a point, so that their overall length was typically that of a single-handed sword (ca. 80-90 cm). The quillions were quite short, and mainly straight, the pommel was often pear-shaped or faceted.
In the Middle Ages, decapitations were executed with regular swords, and the earliest known specifically designed executioner's swords dates to ca. 1540. They were in wide use in 17th century Europe, but fell out of use quite suddenly in the early 18th century. The last execution by sword in Europe was carried out in 1867, when Niklaus Emmenegger was beheaded in Lucerne for murder.
The blades of executioner's swords were often decorated with symbolic designs, showing instruments of execution or torture, or the Crucifixion of Christ, combined with moralistic inscriptions. When no longer used for executions, an executioner's sword sometimes continued to be used in processions as a symbol of judicial power.
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15th century, "Heimatmuseum" at Frankfurt-Bergen-Enkheim -
Early Modern German inscription on the blade: Wan Ich Das Schwert thue Auffheben - So Wünsche Ich Dem Sünder Das Ewige Leben "Whenever I have this sword lifted - I wish the Sinner's with eternal life gifted."
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