This type of sword is the one which was given to most British infantry soldiers during the seven Years War and also equipped both sides of the American Revolution. It was carried next to the bayonet as a side arm for close quarters as well as to be used like a machete and was created to replace the 1742 pattern.
This saber is made of a two piece solid brass hilt. The hilt has only one branch, which is relatively uncommon, and has no quillon. It was not uncommon for soldiers to cut down the quillon, which could be a nuisance when the sword was worn, and apparently from the filing mark this appears to have been the case with this example.
The blade has seen considerable use, as is witnessed by the many regrinds it experienced. In fact the blade still has somewhat of an edge.
It is the work of a renowned swordsmith of the time: Thomas Gill. Gill was a cutler in Birmingham who was known to produce swords equaling those of Solingen in quality and durability. He famously advertised his blades as “warranted never to fail”, and was in part responsible for heightening the reputation of Birmingham as a sword making center.
This hanger was most probably made along the era of the American Revolution as it is when Gill became active and that hangers were removed from service before the Napoleonic Wars. Due to their nature and their age, these hangers are fairly scarce and sought after, especially when connected to an illustrious swordsmith like Gill.
The blade is in good condition, with moderate pitting over its surface. The blade is straight and the assembly is perfectly solid with no rattle.
Blade length : 62 cm
Total: 76 cm
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