Oftentimes old artefacts are in understandably poor condition, but a recent find by archaeologists has shocked them all with its quality.
Ancient monuments, several thousand-year-old treasures, and even mummified remains are just some of the shocking discoveries that archaeologists make every single year, but getting these back to their best is often a mammoth task.
The Earth naturally ages things, and spending thousands of years often buried in the mud isn't always the best thing for rather delicate items.
One ancient sword has shockingly stood the test of time, however, emerging from the ground in a condition so perfect some say it 'almost still shines'.
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Unearthed by archaeologists from the Bavarian State Office for the Preservation of Monuments, this particular artefact is believed to be over 3,000-years-old, originating from the Bronze Age.
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It was found in Nördlingen, Germany, and the researchers have drawn comparisons to the Bronze D type Rixheim swords due to its solid hilt, although uncharacteristically the sword itself has been described as 'octagonal'.
The nature of finding this sword is extremely rare for the area, as it was found alongside other weapons, various grave goods, and remains of a man woman and child.
Grave robberies were extremely prevalent in the 19th Century, so locating something this valuable and in such good condition is quite staggering.
As reported by Heritage Daily, the head of the branch that located the sword, Mathias Pfeil, proclaimed: "It can already be said: the condition is exceptional! A find like this is very rare!"
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It is understood that this particular sword was likely used as a ceremonial instrument, as opposed to being used as a weapon, although it has been noted that its construction would make it still an effective item in battle.
Researchers are currently unclear on whether the sword was locally crafted or imported from elsewhere, as while southern Germany was understood to be one of the main distribution centers for this type of sword, other key sites are found in the country's northern regions, and also in neighboring Denmark.
Regardless of its origins though, many remain in awe of the swords beauty, remarking on its 'gorgeous' green color and 'immaculate' detailing.
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One user on social media offers their opinion, stating that "it looks like the blade is made from moonstone," whereas another argues that "it looks like it was made today."
It goes to show that some things can really stand the test of time despite aging thousands of years, and a discovery like this one is really something to marvel at.