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The Ketland Eagle Head Pommel Sword - The maker of this Eagle Head Pommel Sword is attributed to William Ketland & Co in the book, THE AMERICAN EAGLE-POMMEL SWORD by E. Andrew Mowbary (see page 101 and photo on page 102). Ketland is best known as a gun maker but, like many others engaged in his trade in Birmingham, also turned his hand to making swords. Wm. Ketland & Co had no outlet in the United States but had opportunity to deal there through family members John and Thomas in Philadelphia or merchants such as G. Upson in New York. William Ketland & Co was active possibly as early as 1780 and continued until 1831. The sword had a 28 1/2-inch long blade, which had gold and bluing decoration for approximately 14 inches. Most of the grips are bone with a smaller number in pressed horn and rarely found with ivory. The guard is made of brass and some were silver-plated. The scabbard is leather with brass fittings (sometimes plated). Collectors sometimes call this style of sword a 5-ball Eagle Head Sword. The example pictured below is in excellent condition with over 90% of the original bluing and gold remaining on the blade, 5% of the original plating can be seen on the guard and the grip looks to be ivory. Note- This sword is in better condition than the one in the famed Medicus Collection.

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The Ketland Eagle Head Pommel Sword
(circa 1810)
(click on photos for larger view)

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Some silver remains on brass pommel and scabbard fittings.

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