American Revolutionary War Basket Hilt 'Hanger'

Four-slot guards were a popular feature of English military fashion of the 1770s-1780s. Several similar hangers are pictured and described in George Neumann's book, one in particular is a virtual twin of the sword offered here, aside from the absence of the accessory guard branch on Neumann's example.

Massive half-basket guard is in fine undisturbed condition. The back branch gracefully sprouts into two accessory branches at the guard.

Grip is wood, once covered by leather or shark skin, showing holes which once held tacks of the grip wrapping. Inverted egg-shaped pommel is topped by a high capstan. A felt washer is present between the grip and the inside of the guard, an interesting, seldom seen feature, as most of these had a tendency to dry out and disintegrate.

Some feel that these washers are what remains of the original felt baskets that were lining the inside the guards on these swords.

Blade is straight, cutlass-like, 67 cm / 26.5" long and 34 mm wide at the ricasso. Gradually tapering down, the fuller runs to 14 cm short of the point.
All the steel parts of the hilt have acquired a superb dark patina, blade is straight and true, with moderate pitting and edge nicks. A fantastic, honest Revolutionary War piece.

Source: www.sailorinsaddle.com