Circa 1700 English Hunting / Royal Navy Officer's Sword, Sold

In very good condition, a circa 1700 English Hunting / Royal Navy Officer's Sword.

The etching is very feint, but there are some Latin inscriptions and a year (1658) which is an honour (not a sword made) date. The sword is English courtesy of the roses and thistles around the ferule. This style of hunting sword was widely used by British Royal Navy officers at that time (circa 1700) as evidence is Swords for Sea Service by May and Amis (see plate 3 for a virtually identical sword fully accredited as having been carried by an RN officer). The lack of a protruding clam shell was favoured by naval officers so it is believed this one likely was a naval officer's sword.

The 20 inch blade is in good condition and firm in the hilt. The hilt is very good, as is the staghorn grip. The leather with metal fittings scabbard is good, some cracking to the the leather, the chape fitting missing. The sword sheathes and draws well.

Look, lesser 100% hunting swords from this era sell for around £1400. This is likely a more valuable RN officer's sword (if there were 100% provenance, the sword would be worth £2000 at least). This is at the very least a well above average circa 1700 hunting sword with evidence to suggest it was owned by a naval officer, so our price of just £? (too late, now sold) is an absolute bargain. Please quote item reference AD20 (0423). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.