Favorite sword across all eras?

[RedReaperz]

I think most can agree, swords are very pretty.
But which sword is the best in your opinion? Personally I love a good bastard sword from the medieval times era, but katanas from the feudal Japan era are so pretty.

 

[echo]

While I agree that the bastard sword is a fabulous tool when it comes to slicing through one's enemy, I still favour the ever-famed Excalibur... Sure, sure, it's the sword of Legends, and had been wielded by the always amazing King Arthur, but the sword it was modelled after was pretty sturdy, lightweight, (for swords anyhow), it did the job and led a nation....

But, if we're being for real, I have two: I do enjoy the purpose of the Gladius, which the bastard sword had replaced.. and one can never negate the ever lovely Rapier, though a bit heavy, the handle helped balance it and added a bit of 'umph' when striking down ones foe.