James Potter Loyalist Cavalry Saber

Description:

James Potter Loyalist Cavalry Saber, New York, 1778-81, large iron hilt with large slotted counter-guard, tapering knuckle bow connecting to a large olive-shaped pommel, boldly carved wood grip, top of knuckle bow has seven small notches filed into the edge; long curved single-edge blade with false edge at the tip, the left side of the ricasso boldly marked "POTTER," blade lg. 35 3/8, overall lg. 42 1/2 in.

Note: James Potter was a devout Loyalist living in New York City who took an oath of loyalty to the British government in October 1776. By the middle of 1778 it is clear that Potter was gearing up to produced swords as he advertised in the Royal Gazette on June 13 and 17 seeking a "forger" and "two or three filers" to apply for work with James Potter; Sword Cutler in Maiden-Lane." His advertisement corresponds with the raising of numerous new Loyalist regiments that were being raised to fight alongside the British as the Revolution moved southward.

While firearms were supplied by the British Board of Ordnance, the procurement of swords was left to the units themselves. In America, Colonel Alexander Innes, Inspector General of the Provincial Forces was tasked with procuring the swords for the new Loyalist cavalry units. Innes turned to James Potter to supply the newly needed swords. In all, between January 1779 and December 1781, Potter supplied 1,580 swords to the Loyalist troops through Innes. The swords quickly developed a reputation of sturdiness and lethality with the troops and were coveted by any American cavalryman who was able to obtain one from a defeated foe.

Estimate $8,000-12,000

Hilt toned to a deep brown with minor underlying pitting, grip has shrinkage cracks but remains solidly attached to the blade tang, hilt is tight, peen is original an untouched; blade toned to mottled gray/brown, edge of blade has a few areas of very minor roughness and a small nick in the false edge.


Items may have wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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