Reign of Mary I and dating to the turbulent years preceding the Napoleonic Wars and invasion of Portugal. Fine silver hilt, intricately formed as a matrix of drapes within the thickened medially grooved edges. Original leather grip with bands of studs on the core reflecting through. The surface crackled with minor flaking, but remaining intact which is in itself remarkable. 23 5/8” curved, broad and narrow fullered blade with large VIVA ONOSA RAINHA and foliate scroll one side and foliage with military trophy opposite. The inscription translates to God Save the Queen and refers to Maria I of Portugal (reign 1777-1816) and Queen of Brazil. Doubly rare and only example of its type we have encountered.
