Early 18th Century Highland Broadsword

Here we have a completely original Highland basket hilted broadsword from one family.

From the information available the blade was manufactured in the 1730’s but quite possibly earlier.

The basket is a later replacement in the Glaswegian style of basket hilt dated to the 1750’s.

The scabbard appears to be later.

This sword is a very interesting broadsword.

The broadsword, a usually cut centric blade has had its blade angled forward from the tang so the point could be presented easier.

The blade is a triple fullered backsword blade with some text on one side. The text has a lot of wear and isn’t legible aside from a few letters here and there. The sword has been polished and is in brilliant shape.

The basket is in the Glasgow style and has been fitted to an earlier blade, possibly to make this suitable for military service or possibly for repair or simply due to a change in fashion.

The scabbard is still supple and workable, a wonderful example of period leather work.

~ Dimensions ~

The sword in its scabbard is 38 inches (97 cm).

From the top of the guard to the pommel the distance is 5.5 inches (14 cm).

The diameter of the guard is approx 5 inches (12.5 cm).

The blade length is 31 inches (79 cm).

The sword weighs 13.2 Kg.

~ Condition ~

The sword is in very good condition for its age.

The wire wrap to the handle has come loose.

There is a crack to the rear of the guard.

The leather is still supple but has some wear.

There is very minor blackening to the blade and guard to be expected with a sword of this age.

ref. GS830C392 / MLEOOO