Civil War/Indian War Ancient And Honorable Artillery Sword Of Massachusetts For Sale

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts is the oldest chartered military organization in the western hemisphere. Its charter was granted in March 1638 by the Great and General Court of Massachusetts Bay and signed by Governor John Winthrop. The Company was given a charter by the Great and General Court as a volunteer militia company that would train on a regular basis to increase the readiness and military skills of the members. Its inherent mission was to prepare its members to serve as officers in the enrolled militia companies.

The Company was incorporated as The Military Company of the Massachusetts. Circa 1690 it began to be referred to as the Artillery Company and then the word Honorable was used along with Artillery. During an Election Day sermon the preacher used the term "this ancient and honorable artillery" and the name has been used since that time.

A rare find for a edged weapon collector, and nicely referenced in "The American Sword 1775-1945" by Harold Leslie Peterson on pg. 45 (can be located, and read, via google search). Peterson reports it apparent these swords were carried by non commissioned officers, or lower officers, of this elite militia organization and were privately purchased. He also mentions the sword appeared in a mid 1800s edition of the Ames Sword Company Catalog, and that these swords were made between 1870-1890. An unusual sword, well documented and rarely seen.

Comes with its leather scabbard. Scabbard is fragile as the leather itself is around 150 years old. Sword in itself is solid. Blade in good condition for its age as pictures will show. Will come shipped extra secure to insure no damage comes to scabbard further.