Tutankhamun's meteoric iron dagger

Tutankhamun's iron dagger blade or King Tut's iron dagger blade has been confirmed to be iron of meteoritic origin. Originally discovered in 1925 by Howard Carter, an archaeologist, in King Tutankhamun’s tomb (14th C. BCE), the iron dagger has since been posited as of meteorite origin. However, this was the subject of debate because studies and investigations generated unclear results. The published results from x-ray fluorescence spectrometry accurately demonstrate that the blade’s composition is Iron (Fe), 10% nickel (Ni), and 0.6% cobalt (Co).

At the time of King Tutankhamun’s mummification 3,300 years ago iron smelting and manufacture was rare and used for only for some tools and ceremonial purposes. Hence, iron during this age was apprised to be more valuable or precious than gold. Iron artifacts were given as royal gifts during the period directly preceding Tutankhamun's rule. The iron dagger was superbly fashioned made of a uniform metal that was not corroded or oxidized. An exceptional gold handle decorated with crafted designs and a rock crystal pommel. With the dagger, is an inlaid floral lily themed and jackal’s head gold sheath.

See also

• Meteoric iron
• Dagger
• Tutankhamun