Do you think this is a genuine 1600 AD Knight's sword??

[Michael Blalock]

Not to keep harping on the implausibility of the blade being as old as described, but could a ferrous sword have actually been at the bottom of the Danube river for hundreds of years as described and not rust away?

[katana]

Originally Posted by Michael Blalock

but could a ferrous sword have actually been at the bottom of the Danube river for hundreds of years as described and not rust away?

It is possible that sediments deposited on the river's bottom, can create a soft layer devoid of oxygen and high in nitrates. If ferrous metal sunk into this layer and was covered up quickly as it sank: it would be possible that the oxidation of the blade would be much slower.

It seems unlikely to be the case with the sword in question though

[Tim Simmons]

It is all in the tang. Take a close look. It seems to have missed any ageing what so ever.

[RomaRana]

Originally Posted by Michael Blalock

Not to keep harping on the implausibility of the blade being as old as described, but could a ferrous sword have actually been at the bottom of the Danube river for hundreds of years as described and not rust away?

Not that the sword in question, but yes they are.

Medieval swords are frequently found in rivers. The silt deposits protect them and form an airtight barrier but they look nothing like that sword.

Finds have been made in (just a few of the many):
Neuenburg lake- Oakeshott page 74 -Records Of the Medieval Sword
the River Aa- Oakeshott records page 48
River Thames - Oakeshott records 26 and The Archeology of Weapons 136

River swords have a hard brown patina and are often very corroded.