Scottish Broadsword
The structure of this basket incorporates pierced designs showing interesting variations of key slots and stars. The segment tips in this case end at a center slot in the pommel (which does not encircle it entirely), and are not joined by a ring. Its long double-edged straight blade includes two 1/8" wide center fullers (10 1/2" long) which are inscribed "XX FERARA XX" on each side.
Length: 41 1/2"
Blade: 34 3/4" X 1 5/8"
Hilt: Iron
Weight: 2.6 lbs.
<p class="MsoNormal">George C. Neumann, <em>Swords and Blades of the American Revolution,</em> (Harrisburg: Stackpole Books, 1973), 141. (240.S)</p>
George C. Neumann Collection, Valley Forge National Historical Park
VAFO 421
English Horseman Saber
Fluting and pierced designs have been combined in this interesting semi-basket officer's hilt. Its knuckle bow's upper end is fastened to the pommel ring and adds three outboard branches plus a short inboard one as it descends to join the dished oval counterguard having spokes radiating to its outer circumference. The channeled grip, covered by shagreen (fish skin) is bound by a silver strip and two 3/8" ferrules. Its straight cut-and-thrust blade includes a short 6" back fuller and is marked "ANDRIA FARARA" (a common German forgery).
Length: 37 1/2"
Blade: 31 1/2 X 1 1/4"
Weight: 1.8 lbs.
Hilt: Iron
<p class="MsoNormal">George C. Neumann, <em>Swords and Blades of the American Revolution,</em> (Harrisburg: Stackpole Books, 1973), 153. (275.S)</p>
Circa 1760-1780
George C. Neumann Collection, Valley Forge National Historical Park
VAFO 451