Description
This is one of approximately 300 swords confirmed purchased from France under contract with Virginia from 1779 for the use by Virginia Militia troops. Fewer than 30 examples are known to exist today. It is classified as a French Model 1767 Grenadier Hanger and many were actually used by Virginia artillery troops. Most of the blade etching is worn but you can see enough in places to verify it is one of the contract pieces shipped to Virginia. There is an excellent article on this pattern of sword written by noted author, collector and Virginia historian Giles Cromwell which can be viewed via the link below (just cut and paste in your browser):
http://ehcnc.org/decorative-arts/historic-trades/french-swords-for-virginia-1779-redux/
