1760 Pattern British Infantry Officer's 3/4 Basket Hilt Sword, sold

An exceptionally rare circa 1760 3/4 basket hilted British infantry officer's sword, with clear sword fighting damage, most likely from the American War of Independence (Revolutionary War), made by Samuel Harvey and in excellent condition.

This an exceptionally rare sword, and we bought two from the same collector. A Samuel Harvey 3/4 basket hilt, mostly found on cavalry swords of the era, but also on the rarer infantry sabre as you see here. This sword has been used in hand to hand, sword to sword combat. The cutting edge has period nicks, and the forte / ricasso is fold damaged; this is where two swordsmen lock swords together. This aged damage is not easy to forge, and no-one is likely to want to try. It is possible that the sword could date back a few years, perhaps 1755 at the earliest. So it is possible the battle damage came from the French Indian War in North America, where the British actually fought alongside American forces against the French. But most likely the damage is from the US War of Independence.

In any event, just do an internet search for "Samuel Harvey 3/4 Basket Hilt" and you will soon see how rare and normally very expensive these swords are.

The 31 inch blade is worn and period battle damaged as previously stated, but is in very good condition overall. Firm in the hilt, the steel hilt is also in very good shape indeed. Amazingly, the fishskin grip and associated twisted grip wire bindings are not just present but also very good, though the grip does move a bit, which should be expected.

A rare and superb sword with an evocative history and well above average condition, yet at a well below average price. Whereas you can normally expect to pay £3000 for a Samuel Harvey 3/4 basket hilt in very good condition, our price is only £xxxx. Please quote item reference H66 (996). Further / full sized images available upon request.