Bird head saber. N.p., n.d. Spine stamped "M". Blade approx. 32 3/4 in., overall 39 1/8 in. long.

Provenance: Frederick "Frank" Logan Collection

Though the maker is unknown, the stamped "M" indicates that the sword was contracted for the state of Maryland. The style is consistent with the "bird's head" or "bird head" swords produced between 1805 and 1830; they "do not specifically exhibit a bird's head, but have a unique shape to the pommel and backstrap which resembles the outline of a bird's head." (Furr, p. 37). Also referred to as Dragoon sabers, the swords saw extensive use by mounted artillery and cavalry regiments during the War of 1812. 

Complete in iron scabbard. There is some uniform rusting beginning at the ricasso and spanning some 4 1/8 in. down the blade. The tip exhibits pitting and light wear. There is a dark, rich patina to the iron guard, ferrule and backstrap; the remainder of the grip is worn leather over grooved wood. The leather washer is present and intact. 

From the collection of Frederick "Frank" Logan. Frank Logan was a dedicated Civil War enthusiast and respected member of the collecting community. He began his lifelong passion for Civil War history as a relic hunter in the mid-1970s. Over the decades, that early interest grew into a deep passion for all aspects of the Civil War, with his collecting efforts eventually centering on Maryland-related artifacts and material culture.

A member of the Maryland Arms Collectors Association, he was well regarded among fellow collectors for his knowledge and appreciation of historical artifacts. Carefully assembled over many years, his collection reflects decades of searching, study, and a genuine dedication to preserving pieces of American Civil War history.

References: 

Clegg Donald Furr. American Swords & Makers' Marks. Orange, California: Paragon Agency, 1999. pp. 37-38, nos. 55 & 56.

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Swords, Knives, Bowie Knives, Knife, Blades] [War of 1812, James Madison, Battle of Lake Erie, Battle of Plattsburgh, Fort McHenry, Battle of New Orleans, Treaty of Ghent, Andrew Jackson]