In 1804, Birmingham cutler Henry Osborn’s proposal to modify the pattern Sea Service Sword was accepted by the Board of Ordnance. Although the pattern specifications have not been located, it is clear from extant examples that the principal changes were an improved grip of cast, ribbed iron and the introduction of a wider, unfullered blade that was also both heavier and thicker--making it altogether a far more effective cleaving weapon. Tens of thousands of these were produced by various contractors between 1804-14. This example shows heavy period use, including modification of the hilt by removal of the outer lobes of the figure-8 guard by cutting and filing work (observed on other surviving 1804 cutlasses, including excavated specimens). This practice lightened the arm and more importantly, gave the sailor greater ease when wearing one slung while boarding a vessel or while on boat service. A large "GR” denoting Crown ownership is found on the flat of the blade. CONDITION: light to medium pitting overall; perhaps 60% of the original japanning of the hilt still survives. A true fighting cutlass. JLK Name Value Blade Length 27" Overall Length 31 - 3/8" Paperwork
In 1804, Birmingham cutler Henry Osborn’s proposal to modify the pattern Sea Service Sword was accepted by the Board of Ordnance. Although the pattern specifications have not been located, it is clear from extant examples that the principal changes were an improved grip of cast, ribbed iron and the introduction of a wider, unfullered blade that was also both heavier and thicker--making it altogether a far more effective cleaving weapon. Tens of thousands of these were produced by various contractors between 1804-14. This example shows heavy period use, including modification of the hilt by removal of the outer lobes of the figure-8 guard by cutting and filing work (observed on other surviving 1804 cutlasses, including excavated specimens). This practice lightened the arm and more importantly, gave the sailor greater ease when wearing one slung while boarding a vessel or while on boat service. A large "GR” denoting Crown ownership is found on the flat of the blade. CONDITION: light to medium pitting overall; perhaps 60% of the original japanning of the hilt still survives. A true fighting cutlass. JLK Name Value Blade Length 27" Overall Length 31 - 3/8" Paperwork
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
