December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/14/2022
Lot consists of: (A) Circa later quarter of the 18th century American NCO short saber which features a curved blade and wide fuller. The blade is decorated with an engraved panel just above the narrow ricasso. Spine is marked "J.J. Runkel Solingen" in script for Johann Justus Runkel, who was known to import sword blades to America. Hilt is iron and features a crossguard with open design that terminates with a round quillon. Stirrup shaped knucklebow that is pierced near the pommel to accommodate a sword knot. Teardrop shaped pommel with rounded finial. Grip is dyed black and is retained by ferrules and a backstrap. CONDITION: The blade exhibits a gray patina with scattered freckling and light edge wear. Hilt exhibits a dark patina. Grip exhibits 1 significant chip near pommel. (B) Early American short sword which was possibly used by an artilleryman. The sword features an imported, double edged spearpoint blade with no fuller or ricasso. The blade is marked for Andrea Ferrara on each side of the blade. Brass hilt with flat crossguard that terminates with a round quillon. Stirrup shaped knucklebow connects to the flat, rounded pommel with urn shaped finial. A lower ferrule and backstrap aid in the retention of the grooved wood grip that accommodates copper wire. The sword is complete with a leather scabbard that features brass mounts. The mounts are both nicely scalloped and line engraved and the upper mount features a heart shaped stud and loop for a carry ring. CONDITION: The blade exhibits a heavy gray patina with scattered pitting and edge wear. Markings are somewhat faint in some areas. Hilt exhibits a nice patina with scattered cracks and chips on the upper grip towards the pommel. The scabbard exhibits wear throughout its length including creases and dry areas. Seam is loose in areas. Mounts exhibit a nice patina with the upper mount missing the retaining pin. Mounts also exhibit scattered dents with 1 chip at the edge of the upper mount. A nice pair of swords.
Blade Length
(A) 28 - 1/2" (B) 28 - 1/8"
Overall Length
(A) 34" (B) 30 - 1/2"