Skull & crossbones sword....Masonic?

[Jim McDougall]

Originally Posted by David

Jim, while skull and crossbones is indeed a known Masonic symbol most masonic swords don't seem to incorporate that symbolism. That is not to say none, and i have indeed seen many that do, however the in those cases usually shows up as the pommel as in the example i have posted here. I can't say i have ever seen the skull as a hand guard as in this case. Are there any other supporting Masonic symbols to be found on this sword? I'd have to see other angles of this sword, but the images you show make this skull hand guard seem like an afterthought, not something originally made for the sword. It really gives me more the impression of a pirate thing rather than a Masonic thing, but again, it's not impossible that this was made to be a Masonic sword. Other collaborating symbols on the sword would go a long way to place it definitely as Masonic.

Thanks very much David. Those hilts you posted are the kind of examples I had seen in regalia material but cannot recall the purpose or symbolism, i.e. particular order or award, rank etc.

The skull and crossbones as I recall represented the 'memento mori' (remember you too shall die) in some of the rather grim devices etc.
and was seen on tombstones of Masons.
Regarding the pirates as you mention, it seems there have been suggestions (as yet unsupported) that perhaps some pirates had Masonic connection due to skull and crossbones. While there were likely instances of such connections possible, the idea remains tenuous.

I wish I had access to the sword, but it was just these photos from years ago, and while it seemed a French blade, no markings are recalled.

I think you're right, this hilt seems to be a rather elaborate fabrication and seems perhaps related to the type daggers you posted.

Thank you again for answering and posting these examples.