Ref 1942. A very rare English Mortuary style basket hilted sword. Circa 1650. Good condition. Swords

Largest selection of genuine antique weapons for sale in UK. See our website andrewbottomley.com. Ref 1942. English civil war period sword. - A very rare English Proto-Mortuary style basket-hilt sword circa 1630-1650. Superb quality engraving and chizzelling to the basket guard showing various faces and heads including what appears to be the King's head. The guard decoration is very heavy and clear. Mortuary swords usually show an engraved head of King Charles the First of England. Double edged blade 32 inches in length with three fullers and struck with an armourer's mark of an Orb & Sceptre with some copper inlay. Overall length 38 inches. The basket guard with an internal thumb ring fitted to one side, this is an unusual feature in English hilts. The pommel also engraved with the face of King Charles the first. Original wooden grip with no grip wire. In good condition. This is the best example of a mortuary sword that we have offered for sale in over 50 years. Ref 1942. This type of basket hilt sword was favoured by Oliver Cromwell and the one that he owned is now held by the Royal Armouries, and is on display at the tower of London Museum. Mortuary swords remained in use until around 1670 when they fell out of favour and began to be replaced with other styles. If you wish to purchase this item please visit our website andrewbottomley.com where you can pay by credit/debit card or bank transfer at no extra charge. Established 1968.