FRENCH NAVAL OFFICER’S SWORD C.1780-1800

 Rare variation popular for the two decades including the American Revolution and the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. See Swords and Blades of the American Revolution #164.S and Swords for Sea Service, #97, both of this type but with plain pommels. The lion head variant here is much rarer. Brass hilt with pierced folding side guard with original spring lock intact and functional. Gold remaining to the protected areas of the lion head pommel. Wire wrapped leather covered grip (minor wear). 31 ½” curved broad fullered blade with chocolate patina and uniform light to medium pitting pattern as typical for use at sea.