When the hidden blade first appeared in Assassin's Creed's Jerusalem, Altair Ibn-La'Ahad's weapon became not only the spiritual totem of the Assassin Brotherhood but also a cultural symbol on countless gamers' shelves. Suitable for both display and cosplay, it has won the love of numerous players.

From the assassination scenes in Templar fortresses to the glass cases of modern collectible exhibitions, what secrets does this weapon—steeped in historical weight—hold that collectors might not know?

This article reveals the mysteries of Altair Ibn-La'Ahad's Hidden Blade through 20 essential Q&A for game prop collectors.

Q1: What is the origin of Altair Ibn-La'Ahad's hidden blade in the game's plot?

A1: The hidden blade was designed by the Assassin Masters of Jerusalem. The game doesn’t specify which master, as this is a foundational setting. Early games simplified such backstories to focus on gameplay experience. In the game’s lore, the hidden blade was initially created to fight powerful enemies, relying on asymmetrical stealth tactics to counter superior forces.

Q2: What key improvements did Altair make to the hidden blade?

A2: As an experienced assassin, Altair applied his combat expertise to refine the blade:
- Shortened and smoothed the blade’s ejection and retraction mechanisms.
- Improved blade design for higher offensive efficiency.

Q3: What are the unique aspects of Altair’s hidden blade design?

A3: Prioritizing practicality, the blade features a minimalist design with no ostentatious decorations—ideal for high-risk assassin missions. It has a slender blade and a hilt adorned with the Assassin Order’s dark-toned emblem, avoiding complex embellishments.

Q4: What materials and craftsmanship does Altair’s hidden blade use in the game?

A4: The blade likely uses steel or iron, while the hilt and guard incorporate leather and wood. In the game’s historical context (1191, Third Crusade), smiths would have used bloomery iron—repeatedly folded and forged to form the blade. Bronze (for its elasticity) might be used in mechanical parts like springs.

Q5: What special functions does Altair’s hidden blade serve in the game?

A5: Primarily for stealth assassinations, it also aids in climbing structures.

Q6: What is the value of official Altair hidden blade replicas in the collectibles market?

A6: Limited-edition, officially licensed models can cost thousands of dollars, while standard versions are more affordable. Brands like Myhiddenblade offer diverse options (metal, plastic, 3D-printed) at competitive prices.

Q7: What factors influence the collectible value of Altair’s hidden blade?

A7: Release versions (first editions, commemorative editions) and rarity are key. Props with original packaging or exclusive accessories are also more valuable.

Q8: How do players obtain Altair’s hidden blade in the game?

A8: In the first Assassin’s Creed, players receive the hidden blade from their mentor after completing main story quests.

Q9: What symbolic meaning does Altair’s hidden blade hold in the game’s Assassin culture?

A9: It represents the Assassin’s secrecy, justice, efficiency, and lethality—tools to combat inequality and imbalance, serving as a spiritual anchor for the oppressed.

Q10: What historical prototypes inspired Altair’s hidden blade?

A10: The design draws from the Hashshashin (Assassins) of 11th–13th century Persia and Syria, who used "kilij" sabers hidden in wrist guards for political assassinations. Medieval chronicler William of Tyre documented Hashshashin assassins concealing poisoned blades in their sleeves to strike during embraces.

Q11: What is the origin of the Assassin Order’s symbol?

A11: It may derive from the Hashshashin’s "crescent and dagger" emblem, adapted as the Assassin insignia in the game. Wearing the hidden blade on the left wrist might reference the order’s tradition of "holding the blade in the left hand and the Quran in the right"—though this is unconfirmed and may be coincidental.

Q12: How does the hidden blade shape Altair’s character in the game?

A12: The blade embodies Altair’s calmness, decisiveness, and resilience—traits that enable him to undertake crucial missions and never yield to powerful foes.

Q13: What derivative products exist for Altair’s hidden blade?

A13: Collectibles include model toys, keychains, badges, T-shirts, posters, phone cases, and more. The hidden blade remains a central prop in merchandise.

Q14: What historical technologies inspired the hidden blade’s mechanics?

A14: The blade’s "patterned" design references Middle Eastern Damascus steel for its balance of hardness and flexibility. The spring mechanism may draw from Tang/Song dynasty Chinese crossbows, which