December 10, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2019
Only 500 of the 1812 Contract sabers were produced by William Rose & Sons in Blockley Township, Pennsylvania. For an identical example (possibly this sword), see pages 80-81 of "Swords and Sword Makers of the War of 1812" by Richard H. Bezdek. This sword has a slightly curved unfullered blade that widens towards the clip point. Beveled edge and beveled false edge. The right side of the ricasso is stamped "W / V". The top of the spine is deeply stamped "W. ROSE". Original leather washer. Standard reverse 'P' iron hilt with bird head pommel and black leather wrapped grip, knucklebow faceted. Complete with its original iron scabbard with black finish. CONDITION: Blade retains a grey patina with a couple nicks to edge and excellent markings, some sharpening and a small dished area to edge, where a nick or chip was removed during period. Hilt retains a dark brown patina. Grip retains most of original leather with some deterioration and losses. Scabbard retains generous areas of original finish, remainder with a brown patina. This is a very scarce and well marked Rose marked War of 1812 saber. DMG. PROVENANCE: From the Collection of George M. Rapport.