AMER AUGUST 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/16/2017
RARE CONGRESSIONAL PRESENTATION SWORD TO CHARLES WILLIAMSON FOR VALOR ON LAKE CHAMPLAIN DURING "THE WAR OF 1812".You are bidding on a rarely offered War of 1812 Congressional presentation sword. The hilt and grip are of unique design showing panoply of naval arms with superposed spread-winged eagle. The underside of guard has 18 stars and the letters "US" separated by laurel wreath. The grip is rectangular with high relief mermaid holding an urn over her head on both sides. The pommel is a helmeted Roman soldier. The guard is pierced with a central medallion of a Romanesque woman's bust. The blade reads "CHARLES L. WILLIAMSON, MID-SHIPMAN, LAKE CHAMPLAIN, 11 SEPTEMBER 1814" in large etched panel. Blade retains most of its original luster with crisp, finely detailed 22" etched panels. Latin motto is also inscribed in central panel: "ALTIUS IBUNT QUI AD SUMMA NITUNTUR" which translates to "He who aims highest, rises highest". Other patriotic panels include panoply of naval arms, the naval battle on Lake Champlain, and a beautifully detailed American eagle. This sword, like others, was made by William Rose and so marked on ricasso and etched by John Meer and so signed on opposite ricasso. According to Peter Tuite's exemplary study in U.S. Naval Officers, Their Swords and Dirks, 2004, 31 swords were presented by Congress for this action and this makes the 10th example known. This sword is new to market and just recently found in a local estate in "as found" condition. There is a file of historical background on these swords and the Battle of Lake Champlain accompanying this sword. SIZE: 39" overall. CONDITION: 33" blade retains most of its original polish and luster with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Retains original protective leather washer. Brass hilt retains most of its original gold gilt, as does the single remaining scabbard mount. Pommel is slightly loose. Leather scabbard body is dry, cracked and flaking. 52224-1 JS (20,000-30,000)