Three ancient swords found in a parcel sent from Ukraine

National Revenue Administration from Lublin (Revenue Administration Chamber in Lublin) have discovered three ancient swords in a postal parcel sent from Ukraine. Two of them are typical Scythian culture weapons, whereas the third is a Sarmatian sword. The market value of the artefacts has been estimated at 6,000 zlotys.

During inspection of a postal parcel sent from Ukraine, Lublin Revenue Administration Chamber officers discovered three ancient swords.

"Two of them are acinaces-type swords - a kind of double-edged weapon made of iron, typical for the Scythian culture. The swords date back to 7-5 century BC. Polish collections at the moment have only about 10 artefacts of this kind" - said Lublin Revenue Administration Chamber spokesperson Michał Deruś.

Up to two years in prison

The third sword seized by the customs officers is a Sarmatian-type weapon. It most likely dates back to the period between the turn of 4 and 3 century BC, up to the 4 century AD.

"The market value of the seized finds has been estimated at 6,000 zlotys. The final opinion, including the historic value of the swords, will be issued by an independent appraiser," Deruś said.

Illegal transferring of cultural artefacts from a non-EU country into the territory of Poland carries a prison sentence to up to two years.