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Rare 18th - 19th Century Short Sword, circa 1790-1825. Napoleonic, Presentation

$ 791.47

Availability: 100 in stock
  • All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
  • Time Period Manufactured: 1784-1860
  • Modified Item: No
  • Original/Reproduction: Original
  • Condition: Used
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: Unknown
  • Theme: Militaria

    Description

    Amazing and extremely rare late 18th century to early 19th century short sword. Likely a French made sword with German blade (likely P.G. Knecht, Solingen). Very ornate fire gild brass guard, grip, pommel showing gold gilded decoration on the finely
    chiseled
    blade and at hilt. Measures approx. 22" overall with a 15 3/4" blade. Has coat of arms on one side of grip (Jupiter's thunderbolt, shafted and winged argent-like that of the TOMYRIS coat of arms) and 2 crossed flags on the other side. The only sword I could find that resembles this, is one that belonged to the Tsar Alexander I of Russia that was dated at approx. 1801-1825 (see the picture provided) that sold for €11,000 (approx. ,000.00) at auction. This is likely the same sword maker as the cross guard is identical, but there are no identifying maker's marks on the sword. Maker's name was likely gilded at the base of the blade and may have worn off from scabbard abrasion. Letters on the grip "P D E P" are Latin abbreviation (Pro Deo et Patria- For God and the Country). Lots of other symbolism all over that I am not familiar with. Possibly for ceremonial/Coronation use, a presentation gift from a king or noble or perhaps a union, treaty or marriage between 2 clans or countries as indicated with the 2 crossed flags. Late 1700's to early 1800's. Made by a quality swordsmith like Boutet or Gullaume that made the highest quality presentation swords.
    Overall condition is very good to excellent with some light scattered surface corrosion to the tip of the blade from storage. Slight loss of gilding at the base of the blade. No scabbard.
    This is an important sword of the highest quality.
    I welcome any comments or information on this item. It needs further research by someone with a better library than I have. It may be documented in an earlier out of publication book as it is a sword of importance.
    One of the crossed flags could be the Sons of Liberty Flag (or as it was called "The Rebellious Flag") as it has 9 vertical stripes (would have been red and white) and may relate to the American Revolution. The other flag could be for Scotland or Ireland and may signify Scottish heritage of one of the nine original Sons Of Liberty. Another recent discovery while I was researching another artifact is that these two flags are depicted on The Flag of St. Eulalia who is the Patron Saint of Barcelona, Spain. The Flag of St. Eulalia was used to lead troops into battle that goes back to the 16th century. These ideas are only speculation though.
    Note: I am a long time collector of arms and armor. Please view all pictures to accurately describe this item. I recommend using good judgement and/or consult an expert for any concerns before bidding. This sword previously belonged to a well known arms collector, dealer and author of antique arms. Unfortunately any provenance previously obtained was lost after his passing and the sale of his amazing collection of antique and modern arms.
    Item will be shipped with insurance and tracking. Shipping outside the USA is available through the Ebay Global Shipping Program with some limitations. International bidders can view the details on Ebay.
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