Szczerbiec: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Szczerbiec (literal meaning: jagged sword) is a sword that was traditionally used in the coronation ceremony of Polish kings. It is the last surviving part of the Polish crown jewels—the crown and other items were lost during numerous wars in the past.

Although according to the legend it was used by Boleslaw I Chrobry (Boleslaw the Brave (992-1025)), who notched it when hitting the Golden Gate of Kyiv in 1018 (the Golden Gate was constructed in 1037); it was probably made in the 12th century, possibly for prince Konrad of Masovia. Szczerbiec was used during coronations from the time of Wladyslaw Lokietek to the time of partitions (around 1792).

After partition it was first captured by Prussians, who in 1796 took it to Berlin. Later it found itself in Russia. Finally in 1928 Russia give it back to Poland. During World War II (from 1940) it was deposited in Canada. It came back to Poland in 1959.

Szczerbiec has been adopted as a symbol by a Polish neo-Nazi organisation known as the National Revival of Poland.

It is currently on display in the Wawel Royal Castle Museum, Kraków.