The Cost of Bladed Weapons in the Early Middle Ages

During the early Middle Ages, the cost of bladed weapons was a significant financial burden for the average person. Economic hardships were rampant, and most individuals could only manage to barely survive. A sword was not a common item for the average peasant, as they had no use for one and had nothing worth robbing. In times of conflict, common folk often fought with farming tools rather than swords.

Prices in the 1340s

In the 1340s during the late Middle Ages, a cheap sword might cost as little as 6d (six pence), which equates to almost half an ounce of silver. To put this into perspective, a common laborer earned approximately ￡2 per year, meaning a basic sword would amount to about four days' pay. Another price list shows a 'gallon loaf' of bread costing 0.75d. These figures are extracted from the UC Davis price list, providing an insightful snapshot into medieval economics.

However, it's crucial to remember that these prices reflect the late Middle Ages, a time when swords were relatively common. In the early Middle Ages, around 800 AD, bladed weapons were much more expensive. Nonetheless, even in the medieval period, weapons in general were comparatively affordable. The main expenses were associated with horses and armor. For instance, in the 12th century, a suit of mail (armor) could cost between 100 shillings, or five pounds of silver, and in the 15th century, a Milanese suit of armor might exceed ￡8. An exquisitely decorated set of armor, as documented in historical records, could cost an astonishing ￡340 in 1614.

From a few days' pay for a cheap, non-functional sword to a few years' wage for an elaborate sword fit for an emperor, the cost of bladed weapons depicted a varying spectrum. This cost spanned from basic farming implements to exotic and ornate armory pieces.

Historically, as early as the Bronze Age, when swords represented the "cutting edge" technology, to the 19th century when they were still issued alongside machine guns in battle, the cost of these weapons has remained a subject of considerable interest and debate. Today, even in the modern era, a good sword or a set of custom-made bow and arrows can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.