Lot 140
American Militia Infantry Officers' Sword, 1830-1850. One of the most interesting and unusual swords of the nineteenth century was this type with pistol grip pommel, cross quillons and shell langets. It is the white mountings on this specimen that designates it as an infantry sword. The straight blade is double-edged and tapers evenly to within an inch of the point. The blade is unetched. The grips are bone carved with geometric designs. There is a ferrule at the base of the grips, and they are surmounted by a backstrap which expands to form the pistol grip pommel. The pommel and quillons are connected by a chain. The quillons are straight with acorn finials and shell-shaped langets. All metal parts of the hilt are white brass. The scabbard also is white brass and is entirely devoid of ornamentation. There is a high median ridge on both sides and no drap. Two carrying rings provide the means of suspension. Size: 34½" overall; blade 29" by 1" wide at the hilt.
Published: The American Sword 1775-1945 by Harold L. Peterson, #70. Collection of the United States National Museum. Estimated Value $400 - 600
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| Realized $690 |
