4623 17TH CENTURY BRITISH MORTUARY HILT BACKSWORD.

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[?]Live Online Auction Starts In 2025 Nov 02 @ 10:00 (UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT)
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 900.00 USD
Estimated at 1,800.00 - 2,800.00 USD
A splendid example of a 17th century English horseman's backsword often termed a mortuary hilt that was quite popular during the English Civil War. This example measures 36 1/2" overall with a double fullered plain blade of 30 3/8". The stunning iron hilt has grotesque faces on the underside of the guard said to represent the death mask of Charles I of England. There are two branches at the front of the guard and four branches to the rear. The entire hilt is covered in exceptional foliate motifs. The globular pommel is decorated with designs to compliment the rest of the hilt. Leather covered wood grip with spiraling grooves. No scabbard. CONDITION: the blade shows heavy use as one would expect. It has a cleaned light gray patina with nicks to the edge. The hilt shows overall wear but no significant damage. Grip may be an early rewrap. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Nicholas Apergis. (02-24732/BF). $1800-2800.