 Szczerbiec ( Polish pronunciation : [ <unk> ͡ <unk> ͡ s ] ) is the coronation sword that was used in crowning ceremonies of most Polish monarchs from 1320 to 1764 . It is currently on display in the treasure vault of the Royal Wawel Castle in Kraków as the only preserved piece of the medieval Polish Crown Jewels . The sword is characterized by a hilt decorated with magical formulas , Christian symbols and floral patterns , as well as a narrow slit in the blade which holds a small shield with the coat of arms of Poland . Its name , derived from the Polish word szczerba meaning a gap , notch or chip , is sometimes rendered into English as " the <unk> Sword " or " the Jagged Sword " , although its blade has straight and smooth edges . 
