EARLY KNIGHT’S TEMPLAR SWORD

C.1870 when Civil War veterans sought the security of the secret societies. Silver plated hilt with chain guard and early feature, tang bands. Black japanned scale grips with cross logo. 28” double edge blade of heavy fighting proportions, decorated with the owner’s name and foliage one side and Worcester County Commandry the other. The ricasso with T D GARD WORCESTER MASS inscription. Thomas Gard a jeweler and silversmith moved to Worcester before 1865 and is recorded in an 1871 advertisement as a maker of Masonic Jewels . . . insignia, sword hilts, etc. Leather scabbard with fine hand engraved silvered mounts of typical Civil War construction. Early example from the famous Frank Barkyak Collection. Frank Barnyak was a professional gun show promoter which gave him unparalleled access to the market. He was known for his ability to ferret out rarities such as this.