Fall 2023 Premier Firearms & Militaria Auction
November 3rd, 4th, 5th, & 6th, 2023
This auction will feature an outstanding collection of items spanning multiple categories including Modern, Military, Sporting, & Antique firearms & militaria! Below is just a small grouping of select highlights from the massive offering to be featured in this upcoming sale!
TRULY EXCEPTIONAL FRENCH & INDIAN WAR ERA BRITISH OFFICER’S BASKET HILT BACKSWORD.
02-20043
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.
