Dear esteemed collectors and experts,
I am reaching out to this knowledgeable community as I've recently inherited a private collection of historical swords, knives, and militaria. While these pieces have been part of my family for some time, I am looking to gain a deeper understanding of their historical significance, authenticity, and crucially, their current market value.
As I am not a seasoned collector in this field, I would greatly appreciate any insights, opinions, or guidance from those with expertise in these types of arms. I'm keen to learn more about each piece and ensure they are properly documented and valued.
You can view detailed images of the collection here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zZd ... sp=sharing
Below is a list of the pieces in the collection with descriptions and initial estimated values I've gathered (please note these are preliminary and I am seeking updated, expert appraisal):
Swords:
Officer Sword J.J. Runkel, Solingen: Blade engraved with foliage and royal arms, gilded hilt with fine chains. Length: 100 cm.
Henry Wilkinson English Naval Sword: Blade with British naval regiment marks (19th century), engraved brass hilt.
18th Century Hunting Sword with Ivory Hilt: Decorated blade, authentic ivory hilt.
19th Century Masonic Sword:
German Imperial Officer's Sword:
Civil War Union Staff Officer's Sword: Civil War era sword (1861–1865), original inscriptions.
Masonic Knights Templar Sword: Gilded hilt.
Early "Royal Arch" Masonic Sword: Masonic sword.
Militant Patriarchal Sword: Fraternal sword, unique design.
Arabian Saif Replica Sword: Decorative replica of an Arabian saber (19th century).
French/German Short Sword (Unidentified): Plain carbon steel blade (62 cm, double-edged). Gilded brass hilt with modified "Pappenheim" type guard. Style: Light cavalry officer (c. 1780-1820).
"No Name" Sword (Unidentified): Straight blade without fuller (68 cm, possible crucible steel). Dark wood hilt with simple brass guard. No identifiable decoration or marks.
Knives:
German General Staff Honor Dagger (Wehrmacht Generalstab Ehrendolch): Manufacturer: Clemens Jung, Solingen (1935-1945). Carbon steel blade with acid etchings (inscription and floral motifs). Gilded alpaca hilt with crown at base, inverted wing guard. Metal scabbard with stippled texture.
SS Honor Dagger Replica: Mid-20th century replica (post-1945). Stainless steel blade with "Meine Ehre heißt Treue" etching. Black bakelite hilt with aluminum SS runes. Crossguard with falsified oak leaves. Length: 37 cm.
Indonesian Parang with Silver Mounts: Ceremonial parang from Java, Indonesia (c. 1900-1920). Hand-forged curved blade, 35.5 cm (14"). Buffalo horn hilt with silver mounts.
Lot of African Weapons (3 pieces):
Zulu tribal spear (c. 1900).
Masai ritual knife (c. 1920).
Congolese ceremonial machete (c. 1950).
Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie. Solingen Dagger (W 34976): Type: Luftwaffe officer's dagger (1935-1945). Carbon steel blade, mirror finish. Fine wood hilt. Smooth black metal scabbard.
Gurkha Gauntlet-Sword (1981): Type: Khukri sword + integrated gauntlet. Material: Iron. Inscription: "Nepalgurks & Commands Army 1981". Use: Regulated weapon of Gurkha units.
Any insights, historical context, or informal valuation opinions would be greatly appreciated. If anyone can recommend highly reputable appraisers or additional resources for these types of items, please feel free to share via direct message or in the thread.
Thank you for your time and expertise.
Seeking Expert Appraisal & Information for Inherited Collection of Historical Swords & Knives
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Re: Seeking Expert Appraisal & Information for Inherited Collection of Historical Swords & Knives
You could contact this fellow; he has a good bit of experience with edged weapons from about anywhere.
Oliver Pinchot.
He may be able to point you in the right direction.
https://auctionsimperial.com/
Oliver Pinchot.
He may be able to point you in the right direction.
https://auctionsimperial.com/