May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/27/2020
The late William Guthman also wrote an article for "Man At Arms" magazine (September-October 1982) noting that three swords of this form were found in an attic in Maine. He later told the author that they came from Eliot, just across the river from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Bill and many others have referred to this type as a monkey hilt, although it is more likely that these are lion head pommels. The sword has a slightly curved, single edged, trade blade with a single partial on the top on each side. Both sides are dated 1742 and have an engraved running fox. The sword has a brass classic four slot guard and a simplified lions head pommel with some engraved details and an integral ball-shaped capstan. The cherry grip has a brass ferrule at both ends. For an example of another nearly identical hilt see plate plate 336.S on page 173 of "Swords & Blades of the American Revolution" by George C. Neumann. This is a very desirable form of an colonial American short saber. CONDITION: Blade retains a spotted grey patina with some areas of heavier patina. Cutting edge shows a few nicks. Hilt retains a dark mustard patina and shows some wear and scattered marks. Pin holding knucklebow to pommel is broken an absent and copper wire currently secures them together. Grip is excellent with a few minor marks. Hilt and blade are tight.
This sword is illustrated and discussed on pp. 62-63 of "For Liberty I Live."
Condition: (Very Good).