British, 1804 Pattern Royal Navy Boarding Cutlass, Made/Retailed by Dawes Firm

*British, 1804 Pattern Royal Navy Boarding Cutlass, Made/Retailed by Dawes Firm*

Approximate Measurements: 72.3cm blade, 84.5cm overall.

This rare cutlass features a 72.3cm straight blade with a ribbed grip and double-disc guards. The unfullered blade has a flat spine with a sharp single edge that becomes double-edged for the final 80mm, ending in a rounded spear point with a sharp fighting edge. The forte bears a worn cypher, likely “GR” for King George III, along with a stamped inspection mark of a crown over a “4.” The spine is marked “Dawes Firm.” The steel guard forms a figure-eight shape, which, along with its 1790s predecessor, gives the cutlass its common name. The forward disc’s rear edge has a plain rolled quillon angled away from the hand, while the knuckle guard ends in a flat cap with a rectangular lanyard slot. The ribbed and shaped cast iron grip has developed a wonderful patina.

This pattern of sword was introduced during the Napoleonic Wars and saw action at the Battle of Trafalgar and the War of 1812 against the Americans. Previous cutlasses had similar figure-eight hilts but used horn or leather grips, which deteriorated quickly in seawater and varying temperatures. The introduction of an iron grip significantly extended the sword’s service life. It was a simple yet sturdy weapon, ideal for naval combat. The heavy, straight blade was blunt except near the tip, making it capable of breaking bones with the dull edge or cleaving a skull with the sharpened tip. This weapon inspired such fear that American forces created a “boarding cap/helmet” of thick leather to defend against it. The plain iron hilts were painted black to prevent rust and were distributed in barrels to boarding parties and defenders during combat.

The contractors for the 1804 Pattern cutlass included Henry Osborn, T Hadley, Woolley & Co, Craven and Co, and Dawes.

*Condition*
The blade is in overall excellent condition given its age and service at sea. It has a mottled patina and a few nicks to the blade. The steel of the guard in in good condition though their is some damage wear the guard joins the top of the grip. The grip is slightly loose. Scabbards are rarely found, most cutlasses were ordered without scabbards. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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