December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2024
In 1804, Birmingham cutler Henry Osborn’s proposal to modify the pattern Sea Service Sword was accepted by the Board of Ordnance. Although the pattern specifications have not been located, it is clear from extant examples that the principal changes were an improved grip of cast, ribbed iron and the introduction of a wider, unfullered blade that was also both heavier and thicker--making it altogether a far more effective cleaving weapon. Tens of thousands of these were produced by various contractors between 1804-14, most of which were furnished with scabbards of leather (few of which survive today). This fine example still retains its original scabbard bearing the stamped ownership mark of the Board of Ordnance, being a "broad arrow" superimposed between the initials "BO", the iron chape or suspension hook appears to be a period replacement. The cutlass is in very good condition, with original japanning largely intact on hilt. The straight, single-edged blade bears crown/GR stamps on each face and measures 28 3/4 x 1 ½ in.; overall length of cutlass is 33 1/4 in.