September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/7/2023
A splendid example of a circa 1820s-1840s Federal Period sword, most likely for an infantry officer. The sword features beautifully executed fire-blued panels that adorn the blade for about half its length. The panels contain wonderful gold inlaid motifs, 3 on each side, interrupted by 2 acid etched panels that depict foliate motifs. The inlaid decorations feature a chief's head, federal eagle, and a panoply of arms on the obverse and foliate motifs on the reverse, with a liberty-capped panoply of arms at the center. Beautiful shell languets compliment the center of the 12-ball crossguard (6 on each side). A chain link guard travels from the ball quillon to the fierce open beak eagle pommel with large feathers that morph into the full backstrap, accommodating the carved bone grip. The sword is complete with its gilded scabbard that features 2 carry rings and subtle drag. The blade is beautiful, with only slight areas of loss to the panels and scattered blemishes throughout its length. Generous traces of original finish. Hilt wobbles when handled with 1 significant chip in the grip toward the pommel. Chain link appears to have been broken and reattached at the quillon. Backstrap is loose. Scabbard exhibits wonderful amounts of its original finish exhibiting scuffs from service wear and storage. A great example of an eagle head sword dating from a fascinating period in American history. CONDITION: Very good.
Item Dimensions: L: 38"