COLONIAL AMERICAN SHORT HANGER C.1750-80

Type carried by civilians in the streets and pressed into service during the Revolution. 14 1/8” single-edged blade with narrow back fuller and long false edge. Brass guard of characteristically American form, and oval with short baluster nubs top and bottom forming a crossbar and congealed cloth blade seat. Natural bone grip with sheet brass cap. This is a short sword, specifically made for fighting. It is related to the “hunting swords” which were carried by civilians for personal protection.  It may be related to the Scottish dirks of the period which were plentiful, as many Scotts fled to America after the 1746 defeat at Culloden. As with the Scottish dirks, it was intended for close in fighting in the streets.