GUN FALL 2015
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/5/2015
IVORY - FINEST KNOWN EXAMPLE AMERICAN "HORSEHEAD" MOUNTED OFFICER'S SWORD CIRCA 1835.American horseheads are rare to begin with and this example has no peers. The 33" wide curved blade is decorated with patriotic motifs including a gold 3" eagle with riband reading "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on a blued background. Checkered "certifiable antique ivory" grip is backed by horse's mane which terminates into a large open-mouthed stallion holding stirrup hilt in his teeth. Heavy brass scabbard is deeply engraved with floral, geometric and patriotic motifs. It is rare to find an eagle head in such extraordinary condition, much less a horsehead, which is hundreds of times rarer. SIZE: PROVENANCE: Norm Flayderman Collection, Simon Handlesman Collection. CONDITION: Scabbard & hilt retain 90% plus orig gold plating with scuffs & wear to high areas. Scabbard has several dents, especially at drag from use that do not affect aesthetics. Blade retains much of its orig polish & 95% plus orig gold, and 85% plus orig blue. Remainder of blade is gray with areas of staining & pitting. Certifiable antique orig ivory grip. Several small chips near pommel which do not affect aesthetics. 49110-1 JS (12,500-17,500) IVORY -