English silverhilted hanger 17thC

[Norman McCormick]

Originally Posted by Jim McDougall

Determining the intent or placement of use of a weapon such as this in naval context is of course purely speculation without sound provenance, and as was suggested to me by the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich in my quest for maritime use of the basket hilt......cannot be 'confirmed nor denied'.

Hi Jim,
Here may be a contender. https://collections.rmg.co.uk/collec...cts/78642.html
Regards,
Norman.

[Norman McCormick]

And another.

[Norman McCormick]

A couple of silver hilts one with Naval connections.
Regards,
Norman.

[M ELEY]

Originally Posted by Norman McCormick

Hi Jim,
Here may be a contender. https://collections.rmg.co.uk/collec...cts/78642.html
Regards,
Norman.

Excellent examples, Norman! I'm sure Jim will be thrilled (as was I!) to see that baskethilt with provenance used in naval context. Let us not forget Captain Phillip Broke of the HMS Shannon, who took USS Chesapeake during the War of 1812. His sword was an old family heirloom broadsword refitted with a stirrup hilt guard. When he was badly wounded (thought to be a mortal wound, but he recovered) and being removed from the deck, he called out "Don't forget my trusty sword!" Indeed, in the melee, it would have been nice to have such a formidable weapon!

[Jim McDougall]

Roger that!!!My good kinsman Norman brings in the good baskets with salty air!!
Mark, good note on maneuvering into position for battle. It would seem to have been hard enough in waters near land to get close to another ship trying to avoid you.....let alone on high seas.

[cornelistromp]

here is a very intersting link; Buccaneer Cutlasses: What We Know

also some information of the use of equal silver hilted hangers in naval use

https://benersonlittle.blog/2016/12/...-what-we-know/

[M ELEY]

Jasper, you just found one of the most concise articles I've ever read on buccaneer weapons! Printing and saving this to my files!! As Jim and I suspected, silver hilts did make it to sea. Your sword would make a fine addition to anyone's collection for a variety of reasons. Thanks again for finding and posting this amazing resource!
Mark

[cornelistromp]

Originally Posted by M ELEY

Jasper, you just found one of the most concise articles I've ever read on buccaneer weapons! Printing and saving this to my files!! As Jim and I suspected, silver hilts did make it to sea. Your sword would make a fine addition to anyone's collection for a variety of reasons. Thanks again for finding and posting this amazing resource!
Mark

yes I thought so

best,
jasper

[Richard G]

Again, I throw this in not knowing whether or not it is relevant or particularly pertinent - but if it is English, shouldn,t it be hallmarked?
Regards
Richard