ENGLISH INFANTRY HANGER C.1745-60

One of the large number of variants of the form, which predates standard pattern designations. The group is further diversified by swords made for noble militias serving the crown and contracts to German makers as conditions demanded. These served in the French and Indian Wars, The Revolution and on into the Napoleonic Wars. This example has an all brass hilt with symmetrical double shell guard as found on the pattern now identified as the 1742 infantry hanger. The shells bear several sets of issue marks including some partially obscured upon reissue. Additionally, there is wear from heavy and repeated use. The brass grip bears spiral modeling on the outer (right) face only. The spherical pommel is iconic to this group which is represented in Swords and Blades of the American Revolution, Neumann, #9.S-#20.S. The 35” narrow back fullered blade is typical for these as well. As these were serving in America two generations before the Revolution, it is likely that many were in the hands of Colonists at the outbreak of the War.