Description
The bilbo was a type of cup-hilted sword carried primarily by the Spanish and Portuguese from the 17th to the 19th Centuries, and thought to be a favorite weapon of pirates. It’s heyday covered the era of the Golden Age of Piracy. This example with 4 1/4” diameter hemispherical cup guard with thick downward-rolled edge with double incised line border. Straight round-section quillons with lobed finials; knuckle bow decorated ensuite and connecting to the small faceted urn-shaped pommel. Original turned wood grip. Broad 27 1/4” (69.2 cm) doubled-edged blade with central fuller inscribed “xxxxxxxMINxxxSINALxxHESxxxxx” (My Sign is) on one side, and “xxxxxxEL*SANTISSIMO*CRUCFIGIOxxx” (the Most Holy Crucifixion) on the other, both with line border and stylized anchor mark. Gunmetal gray patina on the metal; guard, grip, and blade all tight; grip sound, with two short splits; blade with scattered pitting. Overall length 34” (86.4 cm). Formerly in the War Museum Collection.













Japanese Type 32 (M1899) Cavalry Saber
Chiselled And Gilt Smallsword, Probably French, 18th Century
Flintlock Kentucky Long Rifle, ca. 1830
Fine Quality Wheellock Rifle, ca. 1700