Scottish Basket-hilted Backsword, Late 17th C

Description

Full basket hilt of iron composed of rectangular bars and flat plates pierced with round
holes and stylized hearts (Family C , type xiv). Conical pommel with incised lines and
dots; no button. Old, but not original leather-wrapped grip and thick leather basket liner.
Hilt shows great age and wear; several old repairs and separations. Broad 33 1/4″ single-
edged blade with long double fullers, stamped “ME FECIT/SOLINGEN” on both sides;
indistinct maker’s mark on ricasso. Overall length 38 ½”. Looks positively ancient and
likely saw much service. Hilt made for a smaller hand than that of typical men of today.