United Kingdom. A Scottish Basket Hilt Cavalry Sword, c.1775

A very nice and rare example of a horseman’s basket hilted broad sword made for an Officer in a Scottish Regiment of Dragoons, likely in the mid to late second half of the 18th century. These sword variants were issued by the Board of Ordnance to British regiments mainly with Scottish associations and were manufactured in the traditional Scottish style.

This particular example features an 81 cm double edged blade and is of fine quality. With A.Ferara etched at centre, the blade retains a high grade polish with minimal restoration, primarily near the hilt. The blade tip has been knocked otherwise the blade is excellent. 

The fully formed basket is pierced with a pair of Scottish thistles in the side panel guards with the basket itself built from a central support line forming the front panel itself. The thistles are adorned by a pair of Georgian crowns and etched with details. 

The handle itself is of wood base with fishskin wrap as well as wire. The wire has loosened overtime.

Overall the sword is in fine and original condition. The metal parts are very well preserved. The hilt maintains its original profile and is without damage or repairs while the blade displays extremely well.