Item Description
Original Item. Only One Available. This is an absolutely stunning American NCO sword which is of the exact make & style of Non-Commissioned Officer’s swords manufactured by Lemuel Wells of New York, one of the most famous New York sword makers of the latter part of the century and the early 19th century. This dates the sword to the era of the Legion of the United States. The Legion of the United States was a reorganization and extension of the United States Army from 1792 to 1796 under the command of Major General Anthony Wayne. It represented a political shift in the new United States, which had recently adopted the United States Constitution. The new Congressional and Executive branches authorized a standing army composed of professional soldiers rather than relying on state militias.
Although the sword is not marked to Lemuel Wells, we are confident that this example was either made by him or modeled after his examples.
The sword features a 28” blade with two very wide fullers and is beautifully gold-etched with American eagles, stars, and floral motifs for the first half of its length. The blade has survived extremely well without its scabbard, and much of the gold etching is still well-retained, with evidence of past oxidation on the blade cleaned away. The original leather blade washer is still intact, which is unbelievable to see. The fluted maple grip is very well-done and the pommel is of brass and is octagon-sided with flattened boss. The finish of the hilt is very well-retained, and the patina across the sword is nothing short of phenomenal.
This sword is in excellent, untouched condition for dating to the 1790s, and will become a centerpiece of any Early American sword collection. A great piece to represent the short-lived Legion of the United States leading into the War of 1812. A really stellar example, ready for further research and display.
Dimensions:
Blade length: 28”
Overall length: 33¼”
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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