4624 17TH CENTURY BRITISH MORTUARY HILT BACKSWORD.

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This item SOLD at 2025 Nov 02 @ 20:43UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 900.00 USD
Estimated at 1,800.00 - 2,800.00 USD
Please note as of 10/2/25 this item description has been updated. Please revisit this description and contact us with any questions.
A great 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 41 3/4" overall with a double fullered blade of 35". The top fuller is stamped " W * * E * * I * * S * * S " ON BOTH SIDES. The stunning iron hilt has serpent like and foliate designs on the underside of the guard. There are two branches at the front of the guard and four branches to the rear. The entire hilt is covered in simple foliate motifs and two faces believed to be Charles I of England.. The globular pommel is decorated with designs to compliment the rest of the hilt. Wire wrapped gip with Turk's head knots above and below. No scabbard. CONDITION: blade has a pleasing medium gray patina with only moderate wear. The hilt is solid with no notable faults. Grip may be a very early rewrap. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Nicholas Apergis. (02-24734/BF). $1800-2800.