When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
For the discerning collector of antique arms and armour, this is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a highly coveted, untouched 18th century (possible late 17th century) Scottish Basket-Hilted Cavalry Broadsword. This piece represents the "perfect storm" for collectors: a full-length cavalry blade signed by the legendary Andrea Ferrara, mounted in a signed basket hilt by the master Glasgow armourer John Simpson, and retaining its original wire-wrapped grip with intact Turk's head knots.
This sword has been preserved in its true historical state and has not been ruined by modern cleaning, polishing, or wire-brushing.
Thesymmetry of the hilt is absolutely incredible and highly sought after by collectors. In fact, a hilt's symmetry is one of the most important elements of a Scottish hilt broadsword. This is not surprising since the hilt was made by one of the most (if not the most) famous masters in Scottish history.
THE BLADE
Length: 36 1/4 inches (Confirming this as a rare, purpose-built cavalry trooper's sword, rather than a shorter infantry blade).
Markings: Clearly stamped in the fullers on both sides with the highly prized name ANDREA on one side and FERARA on the other, flanked by traditional armourer's cross/star marks.
Condition: The steel boasts a beautiful, dark, and mottled historical patina. It remains full-length and unmodified, showcasing the exceptional flexibility and quality associated with imported Ferrara-marked German blades of the era.
THE HILT & GRIP
Maker's Mark: The heavy, robust iron basket guard features the recognizable maker's stamp of John Simpson (Glasgow, late 17th/early 18th century) struck into the solid iron plate.
The Grip: Miraculously, this sword retains a continuous, tightly wound wire grip. Even more remarkably, it still features the original braided metal "Turk's head" knots (ferrules) at both the top and bottom of the grip, securely locking the wrap in place. Surviving 18th-century grip organic and wire materials in this condition are exceedingly rare.
Basket Condition: The basket features classic decorative cutouts and retains an untouched, deeply aged iron patina that perfectly matches the blade. Structurally sound with standard age-appropriate wear.
Blade Length: 36 1/4"
Overall Length:41 3/4"
CONDITION REPORTThis is a genuine, 300-year-old weapon of war. It exhibits age-appropriate wear, surface oxidation, and a dark historical patina throughout. It is being sold exactly as found - uncleaned, unsharpened, unpolished, and unbroken. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully, as they serve as the primary description of the item's condition.
I've put a ton of time into researching this sword. I've attached some screen shots, found at the end of the images, from what Gemini (A.I.) has concluded from all the pictures and input. It provides great insight and background as to the significance of this sword. Be Careful - there are MANY replica and fakes on the market due to high desirability and value of these swords. This one speaks for itself with all the markings and signatures that's sure to be the centerpiece of any collection. These are almost impossible to find.
NOTE: I reserve the right to cancel any purchase based on a buyer's rating, response, location, and/or ultimately my sole discretion.
Please don't ever hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns. I'm always happy to provide additional pictures upon request.
Ships UPS with signature required at delivery.
I reserve the right to cancel any purchase based on a buyer's rating, location, and/or ultimately my sole discretion. U.S. Shipping ONLY! I can always make an exception, but contact me first before purchasing.
