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18THC. ROYAL NAVAL BOARDING CUTLASS
 
Considered the first official pattern naval boarding cutlass, this figure-eight guard sword was used by both British and American navies from the late 18th through early
19th centuries.
These original examples of this particular pattern are quite difficult to find.
From a local Halifax estate, this is one of those pieces we wish could tell us its history. The guard has what are clearly several musket ball impressions, and also one to the edge of the
blade. It appears as though someone stuck the sword tip into the ground with the hilt facing front and then proceeded to fire a few shots at it from a distance. Why someone chose to do that will forever remain a mystery. Possibly a blacksmith attempting to show the durability of his craftsmanship? Possibly just a couple sailors having fun while ashore?
Regardless, this is a scarce original 18th century naval boarding cutlass in as-found condition.
Measures 33” in length.