Image Lot Price Description





2231
$0.00

EXTREMELY RARE ANCIENT & HONORABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY OF BOSTON OFFICER’S SWORD, CIRCA 1800.

We only know of one other example of this exquisite sword and that is in the AHAC museum at Faneuil Hall which was original built in 1742. The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts is the oldest chartered military organization in the western hemisphere. Its charter was granted in March 1638, and signed by then Massachusetts Bay Colony Governor John Winthrop. This organization which is approaching its 400th anniversary has a rich military history, including 4 Presidents who have served as members (James Monroe, Chester Arthur, Calvin Coolidge, John F. Kennedy). This organization has also had 7 Medal of Honor winners from the Civil War through Viet Nam. At time of manufacture of this sword there were few officers in this unit and this sword could have been easily been carried before and during the War of 1812. Sword closely mimics that of earlier American Revolutionary War patterns with slotted guard swords carried by officers. Pommel of sword is decorated with 6 pointed star surrounded by “Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company”, backstrap has a similar 6 pointed hunters star and other engraved decoration, top mount of scabbard has wreath encompassing “Incorporated 1638”. PROVENANCE: Interview with curator and consignor’s inspection of both swords together at museum. Special Note: This item contains or is made of ivory. Do not bid on this lot unless you have read and agreed to our "Ivory Position Statement" and the "Waiver of Legal and Financial Risk to James D. Julia in regards to your Purchase of an Ivory Object." This information is located in the front section of our catalog. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Matching brass scabbard mounts, hilt, backstrap and pommel retain much of their gold finish with remainder polished brass patina. 31″ double fullered blade still retains light decorations including panoply of arms on blued background though most blue has faded with scattered areas of staining and pitting. Carved, fluted, “certifiable antique elephant ivory” grip is fine overall, well fit with slight shrinkage against backstrap and pommel. 49359-1 JS IVORY (7,000-8,000) – Lot 2231

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Auction: Firearms - March 2016
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.