December 10, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2019
Peterson identified this as the pattern carried US Engineers from about 1805 to 1820 and somewhat later on the basis of an identified example from the War of 1812. They are only briefly described in records as straight bladed, yellow mounted, with white or black grips. Modeled on a contemporary British sword, as many US patterns were, the sword has a straight spadroon style blade, flat, double clamshell guard, fluted bone grip with ferrules and faceted urn pommel with capstan. The blade etching includes the name of the Birmingham sword maker "R. Bolton," who is well known for supplying the American market and the blade has an American eagle, confirming its intended destination. The scabbard, like Peterson's and the limited specifications, is black leather with gilt brass mounts. CONDITION: Very good. Brass hilt is plain, with strong remnants of muted gilt, with some rubbing to the brass on the pommel. Grip is very good, no chips or cracks, somewhat yellowed on reverse, cream color obverse. Blade pad is missing. Very slight wobble to the hilt. Upper two-thirds of the blade, dull silver mixed with grey and brown, but smooth metal, good edge and point. Lower third blued, drypoint etched and gold washed. Foliate and trophy of arms with liberty cap reverse. Obverse with Bolton's name in scroll and American eagle with US shield and ribbon overhead. Very good blue, with only small slightly rubbed area on reverse near guard, very good gold wash making the motifs quite vivid. Scabbard is solid. Good color, minor crazing to finish overall. Fifty percent gilt remaining on top mount, others show as aged brass. Carrying rings and stud in place. A very nice War of 1812 period sword with American motifs and connected with a small and elite branch of service. SR. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of George M. Rapport.