In the 4th century BC there were two primary sword ‘types’ being used in the Greek world: a single edged Kopis or Makhaira and the straight and double edged Xiphos. While the Kopis is represented in Scillian art of the time, modern research shows it was not well represented among Greek forces; indeed this example from the Gela Krater shows the weapon in the hands of the bad-guy Amazons, as a kind of short hand for an obvious ‘barbarian weapon’. For more on this topic I recommend the work of Fernando Sanz who points to the Kopis being unusually under represented in Greek graves and other armament finds. A possible exception to this rule is the grave find of Thracian King Seuthes III, which did indeed have a well decorated Kopis.

So with that addressed, that leaves us with the other sword; the straight Xiphos. This is the much more common weapon of the fighting Greek warrior, seen as the holstered side-arm on the previous Krater. This came in a few varieties, but typically was between 18-30 inches in total length, with a slightly flaring ‘leaf shaped’ blade, which was slightly more emphasized for thrusting than cutting.

Xiphe tended to be more bespoke in their construction, compared to the mass produced Roman gladii which eventually replaced them. Xiphe hilts sport a simple cross guard, and usually slab scale grip construction which could be done with ivory, and embellished with gold and other fine decorations. The scabbards too could be intricately carved on their throat and chapes.

Here are a few additional examples from Macedonian tombs, as well as a couple of Italian finds (page 4).

References: "En torno al origen y procedencia de la falcata ibérica" Fernando Quesada-Sanz J. Remesal, O.Muso (eds.) (1991) La presencia de materialetrusco en la Península Ibérica. Barcelona, pp.475-541.