December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2024
Collectors have long called this sword form the "Rose Model 1812 NCO Sword", but there is actually no evidence for any a pattern NCO sword being established. However, both William and Joseph Rose received contracts for 1000 "non-commissioned officers' swords in 1812, so this is perhaps better described as a Rose 1812 Contract NCO Sword". There is some evidence that the Rose cutlers of Philadelphia provided similar swords to the government prior to the war by contract in smaller increments, which may account for the rather archaic style of the hilt, which is reminiscent of late 18th century hangers. From Federal issue records, it is clear that these swords were also issued out to musicians, for which there was no established pattern. 30 1/2 inches long with a straight, 25 1/4 inch, single-edged blade with 18 inch-long, narrow fuller, ending in a spear-point; the spine of the blade is stamped "W. Rose"; the blade is 1 1/8 in. W at ricasso and is stamped on the right face "V/W", which is believed to be the US government view mark of Marine T. Wickham, a Federal arms inspector during the 1810s. Brass stirrup hilt with single outboard branch and large, ovoid pommel with spirally grooved, ebony grip sited between brass ferrules, still retaining the original, twisted brass wire wrap in the channel. Condition: Blade a greyish, metallic tone with patches of light to moderate pitting; hilt with dark, unpolished patina.