1804 pattern, British "Figure of Eight" Naval Cutlass with original scabbard

* 1804 pattern, British "Figure of Eight" Naval Cutlass *

This Trafalgar era, 733mm unfullered blade has a flat spine and sharp single edge. The steel guard forms a "figure of eight", giving this cutlass its' name. The basket or knuckle guard terminates over the pommel in a flat cap with a rectangular lanyard slot. The ribbed and and shaped cast iron basket grip has a wonderful patina. At the top of the blade there is a GR cypher below the Crown. Also included is the original leather scabbard with brass frog button.

Naval cutlasses were heavy, short-bladed swords designed for hacking and thrusting. They were not intended for fancy swordplay (like fencing) or dueling, but for close combat on the rolling decks of wooden sailing ships where weight might count more than skill. Because boarding actions were fought on the crowded decks of vessels with tangles of shrouds, spars and equipment, the blade had to be short for control and heavy enough to add momentum to a sailor’s swing. The name of this cutlass type refers to the shape of the bent iron knuckle bow and guard around the hilt. It was a standard pattern for both the British and U. S. navies in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Because of the constant fear of mutiny, seaman were not allowed personal weapons. Cutlasses were the ship's property, stored in racks without scabbards, ready for use.

* Condition *

The steel of the guard is in good condition with the original black paint remaining. The scabbard is in good condition with the expected signs of wear and tear to be expected in a scabbard of this age. Please see attached photographs as part of the condition report.

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