The sword was made by the Crown Jewellers, Garrards, for the investiture of Prince Edward (later Edward VIII, 1894–1972) as Prince of Wales on 13 July 1911. Historically, these investitures had taken place in front of the Houses of Parliament, but in 1911 it was decided to hold the ceremony in Wales for the first time. The move was largely encouraged by Chancellor of the Exchequer and Welsh politician, David Lloyd George. Lloyd George also encouraged the Prince to learn Welsh for the ceremony.

The sword's hilt is formed as a coronet supported by two Welsh dragons, whose tails form the grip. During the investiture, the Prince is bestowed with the sword along with other Honours of the Principality of Wales – a coronet, a golden rod, a mantle and a ring.