1847 PRESENTATION SWORD – CAPT. RICHARD LILY, 1ST BALTIMORE SHARPSHOOTERS

$3,500.00

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Item Code: 846-550

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A striking, published example of an 1840 militia officer’s sword presented to Captain Richard Lilly of the “First Baltimore Sharp Shooters" in 1847. Excitingly, a period newspaper describes the circumstances of the presentation: "During the day the pleasing ceremony of presenting a beautiful sword to Captain Lilly took place. It was presented by Mr. R.A. McPherson, on behalf of the rank and file of the corps, as an evidence of esteem in which they hold their commander. It was a free gift of the men, the officers knowing nothing about it." (The Baltimore Sun, July 1847).

Also from an article in The Baltimore sun dated May 27, 1847, Capt. Lilly was courtmartialed for disobedience of orders, unofficerlike conduct, and conduct to the prejudice of good order and military discipline, in reference to his actions during a parade conducted in Baltimore on May 3, 1847.  He pled not guilty to all counts. An online search did not produce the results of the trial, but as he is mentioned in several subsequent articles in the same newspaper which continue to connect him to the unit, including the presentation of this sword, it is assumed that he was acquitted.

This sword is published in Daniel D. Hartzler’s American Silver-Hilted, Revolutionary and Early Federal Swords. Vol. I. Fig. 344, p. 365.

Its hilt and scabbard fittings are cast, chased, and gilded brass. Cast-in-the-round bust-form pommel with a medieval-style great helm that transitions to a ferrule that connects to the backstrap that supports mother-of-pearl grip scales. A double chain guard connects the knight’s head pommel to the crossguard that features scrollwork, stars, and terminating bud quillons.

The blade is a standard 1840-style straight, double-edged blade with central fuller and with frosted etched foliate and patriotic designs. The obverse includes a Federal eagle grasping a “Liberty” riband underneath 11 stars and radiance. Scrollwork and martial themes continue along the blade. The reverse features more scrollwork, a stand of arms topped by a Phrygian liberty cap, and oak leaves.

Complete with brass scabbard engraved designs and vignettes, with 3 brass rings. The gold plaque is finely engraved: “Presented to Capt. Richard Lilly by the “First Baltimore Sharp Shooters.” July 5th 1847.” The reverse of the ricasso is etched “R & A Campbell Baltimore” and “N.P. Ames” is etched on the blade with the following address obscured by the languets. Blade Length: 31 ¼ in. Overall Length: 37 in.

Robert Campbell was known to import swords into Baltimore from 1819 to 1834. He entered into business with his brother Andrew from 1834 to 1854.  [sr] [ph:L]

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