Revolutionary War Officer's Sword Green Ivory Grip, Attributed to John Bailey

United States or England, Revolutionary War era, ca. late 18th century CE. A rare and distinguished officer’s sword from the American Revolutionary period, closely aligned with the celebrated dog-head pommel swords of renowned cutler John Bailey. The grip, expertly carved from elephant ivory and dyed a striking green, is surmounted by a finely cast sterling silver pommel in the form of a hound’s head. A single chain extends from the pommel—once likely connected to a now-lost guard to complete the knuckle bow. The gently curved, single-edged blade is of the classic hanger type, a form widely favored by officers on both sides of the Atlantic during the era. One of the most famous examples is the green ivory-handled sword reputedly carried by George Washington himself. Size: 31.5" L x 1.5" W (80 cm x 3.8 cm); silver quality: 93%.

This exceptional officer's sword, comes with superb provenance, having remained in the same American family for over two centuries. Originally owned by First Lieutenant Samuel Blackman Jr. (1759-1837) of the First Connecticut Continental Regiment, the sword has been passed down through generations. The lineage is well documented: from Blackman Jr., the sword probably descended to his grandson Charles Seymour Blackman (1837-1906), then to Alfred Atwater Blackman (1861-1928), a noted collector and great-great-grandson of the original owner. Alfred, whose family merged with the affluent Atwater line - was also a descendant of Canadian politician and businessman Edwin Atwater. In 1960, Alfred's widow gifted the sword collection to their grandson continuing this direct line of custodianship. Alfred Atwater Blackman is documented as the great-great-grandson of Samuel Blackman Jr. - according to "The Official Bulletin of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution" Volume IV, October 1909, page 18. This publication can be found online. A handwritten notebook cataloging the family's sword collection, penned by Alfred himself, further identifies this particular sword as having belonged to his Revolutionary War ancestor. The combination of direct familial attribution, clear provenance, and connection to a prominent Continental officer makes this sword a historically significant and exceptionally rare piece of early American heritage.

Compare to a stylistically similar example by John Bailey with a silver dog head pommel in the American Revolution Institute of the Society of Cincinnati collection. John Bailey was a prominent American cutler and sword maker active in the late 18th century, best known for crafting George Washington's elegant battle sword. Originally from England, Bailey immigrated to the American colonies and established a workshop in New York, where he earned a reputation for producing finely crafted swords, knives, and other edged weapons. At a time when imported arms were scarce, the superior quality of Bailey's craftsmanship stood out.

Provenance: private Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA collection, acquired via descent from grandfather

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#194059

Damage and losses to the chain link attached to the pommel: missing a two links (replaced with pieces of wire). The 3 pronged ornament on the end is missing the tips and probably once attached to the guard, the guard is also missing. No marker marks or stamps. Stable pressure fissures on the ivory grip. Dark patina and toning to silver. Chips to the blade edge, but still sharp, handle with care. Handle is slightly loose and swivels slightly.