The Kurgan’s (Clancy Brown) sword from Russell Mulcahy’s fantasy adventure Highlander (1986).

This authentic weapon would have been used for scenes where durability was needed, like breaking the table in the mill and for SFX. It was specifically used for the initial, pyrotechnic-enhanced swing of the first Kurgan/Connor MacLeod (Christopher Lambert) New York battle; a bird’s eye view of the Kurgan advancing on Ramirez (Sean Connery); on the staircase during the Quickening following Ramirez’ beheading; and during the final Kurgan/McLeod duel. In the Blu-ray extras, unused footage of the Kurgan’s beheading also features this sword.

The piece can be identified in the film from its shorter one-and-a-half hand grip and the way Clancy Brown had to wield it due to its weight.

Inspired by the German bidenhänder and Scottish claymore, this hero broadsword was created at Pinewood Studios by Effects Associates. It is the only Kurgan sword from the film featuring a one-piece steel blade. The other steel sword made for the production is the cased sword the Kurgan assembled in his hotel room, Lighter, two-handed duralium-bladed stunt swords were used for fight scenes, the scene in which the Kurgan practiced in his hotel room, and other close-ups.

The one-piece sword differs from the cased and duralium swords with its aluminium cross guard. The distinctive spikes were added during restoration, reproduced from photographs and details given by the Property Master, and differing from the longer, fixed spikes on the duralium swords.

The handle is wrapped in black faux-reptile skin and criss-crossing black leather thongs, added during restoration to cover the brown leather base wrapping and mirror the sword’s screen appearance.

The four-foot blade features a deep central fuller, blunted along the edges and ending in a sharp point - the spikes’ edges have been similarly blunted. Surface rust has been cleaned away and a dent removed from the tip, although production-related scratches and dents along the edges remain. The blade, guard and pommel have been polished to a smooth shine. Documents explaining the sword’s history and restoration are included along with a letter from the prop master, John Allenby, confirming the facts and authenticity.

Dimensions: 126 cm x 26 cm x 9 cm (49 ½” x 10 ¼” x 3 ½”)

£10,000 - 15,000