Copper-alloy, 43.88 grams, 43.02 mm. 14th-16th century AD. The medieval 'kidney dagger' was a long-lived form of weapon used for personal protection by civilians. It takes its name from the twin lobes which flank the upper edge of the blade; these also give it the alternative name of 'ballock dagger'. The piece is a single casting comprising the lobes, which form the quillons of the dagger, and a central collar, round in plan and D-shaped in section but with a quadrangular slot in the middle to accept the tang of the blade. On one vertical face is a rectangular projection. The hemispherical lobes are embellished with a series of cast radiating ridges. Reference: London Museum Medieval Catalogue 1940, reprinted Ipswich, 1993, p.47ff. Very fine condition. Provenance: found near Sittinbourne, Kent, England.