February 24-26th 2017 Premier Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/25/2017
Includes a sword that was apparently broken at the Battle of Cowpens during combat between Washington and Tarlton. Approximately 21" was broken off, 14" remain of the three fuller Spanish blade of Washington’s broken sword. Broad brass capstan, melon-shaped pommel that is ribbed around the center. It is damaged below the pommel neck. The center of the grip is walnut and the brass upper portion of the grip is engraved with lines. Heavy slotted tarnished guard was altered during period of use when branches on right side apparently broke off. Remnants of a leather washer can be found between guard and blade. Curved Spanish three fuller blade of which 14" remains, being broken before the point of percussion. Hilt: 6-1/2”. Total: 20-5/8”. Dark patina overall with scattered marks from use. Washington’s supposed replacement sword is also unmarked and has an identical pommel, grip and a very similar guard, complete with branches on the right side. Intricate brass half basket. There is a red leather washer between the hilt and blade. The Spanish-style blade is slightly curved with three-fullers. Hilt: 6-1/2”. Total: 41-1/4”. Excellent condition, guard polished and retaining a coat of old lacquer, one branch on right side is detached. Blade has been cleaned and retains a grey patina with a few scattered marks and some light pitting. Complete with a letter from Edward Glenn Schlotzhauer stating that these swords were handed down from William Washington to his son William Washington Jr, then to William Washington III. They were then purchased by Beverly DuBose of Atlanta for Jamie Knowles of Catonsville. The writer of the letter purchased them in 2003. The swords were displayed at one time in the State House in Columbia, South Carolina. These are very nice and unique examples of high quality American Revolutionary War swords with interesting provenance. Copy of "American Silver-Hilted Revolutionary and Early Federal Swords by Daniel Hartzler" featuring these swords will be included. Swords are featured on page 393 figures 362-365.
CORRECTION: These swords are of New England origin and the provenance should be disregarded.
Overall Length
Largest: 40 - 1/2"