3482 TRULY EXCEPTIONAL FRENCH & INDIAN WAR ERA BRITISH

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This item SOLD at 2023 Nov 05 @ 18:24UTC-4 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 4,000.00 USD
Estimated at 8,000.00 - 12,000.00 USD
OFFICER'S BASKET HILT BACKSWORD. Overall length: 46 1/2". Blade length: 39 1/4". This is an absolute brute of a backsword weighing nearly 4 1/3 pounds. There is a very similar sword pictured on page 148 of "Swords & Blades of the American Revolution" by Newman. The long, straight backsword blade initially features 3 flutes at the ricasso measuring 1" in length and about 7/16" in width. Across the flutes on one side is etched the date "1755". Just above the flutes is the name "S*HARVEY". Above the maker's name is a large 3" engraved crown over "GR". Above the crown is a 34" medium fuller topped by a 22" narrow fuller. The broad grooved bars & arrowhead cutouts predominate the style of this exceptional officer's iron hilted backsword. The influence of Scotland's Glasgow School can be seen throughout the hilt. The rounded ovoid pommel emulates the channel decoration, as seen on the guard, and features a thick capstan. The sharkskin grip & wire wrap are quite early and may even be original to the sword. A woven Turk's head knot ferrule terminates the top & bottom of the grip. Of course, no scabbard. CONDITION: blade has a medium gray, mottled patina with no serious pitting. All etching/engraving remains clear. The hilt is quite strong with no breaks; however, the tiny quillon is missing, likely lopped off by an opposing sword. The grip is complete, though there is a separation at the seam from drying. Wire is a bit displaced but complete. This is a truly exceptional example of a rarely seen mid-18th century officer's backsword. (02-20043/BF). $8,000-12,000.